Ireland is "not going to back off" on its commitment to bring in stricter new alcohol legislation under the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill, despite facing opposition from 11 EU countries and the European Commission, Government sources have told The Irish Times.
The bill would require all alcoholic drinks to have labels featuring calorie counts, health warnings and alcohol levels, which manufacturers importing alcohol into Ireland would have to include on their products.
The new rules would also include minimum unit pricing on alcoholic drinks, as well as strict separation of them from other items in shops, a ban on broadcasting advertisements before 9pm, restrictions on promotions, and no advertising near schools or playgrounds.
Ireland formally notified the Commission of its intention to introduce the legislation in January of this year. Nine EU states issued detailed opinions, while the EU Commission and two other States issued comments. Ireland has until 28 July 28 to respond.
© 2016 - Checkout Magazine by Jenny Whelan.
