A majority of Irish consumers do not think the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill should be introduced in its current form, according to a new poll from Independent Research Agency, iReach.
The poll, commissioned by the Alcohol Beverage Federation of Ireland (ABFI), found that Irish consumers are not in favour of a number of measures proposed in the Bill, including advertising restrictions as well as the banning of complimentary drinks in certain spaces, such as in hairdressers or supermarkets.
The Alcohol Bill will reportedly make Ireland one of the most restrictive countries in the world for marketing alcohol products.
“There is a misconception that the Public Health (Alcohol) Bill has broad-sweeping public support. This research clearly shows that Irish consumers are against certain measures proposed in the Bill.” Patricia Callan, Director of ABFI, said.
"While the drinks industry supports the objectives of the Bill - to tackle harmful and underage drinking in Ireland - we are concerned that certain proposals in the Bill are poorly targeted and are not based on evidence. This means that they are unlikely to actually reduce alcohol misuse. Furthermore, these measures will have unintended negative consequences on jobs and businesses across the country, from grain to glass. It’s vital that the Government does not damage a thriving Irish industry when introducing legislation to achieve public health objectives.”
© 2017 - Checkout Magazine by Donna Ahern
