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Booze ban puts bottles behind bars

A further 23 sections of the Public Health Alcohol Bill come into operation this morning, severely limiting the sight of intoxicants in public places.

Health Minister Simon Harris described the move as ground-breaking, pointing out that this is the first time that public health legislation has been used to address alcohol issues.

Outlets

In two years’ time all alcohol in mixed retail outlets will be confined to an area separated by a 1.2 metre high barrier or available but hidden in a unit behind the counter.

The legislation was passed by the Oireachtas last month.

From this time next year:

• alcohol advertising on public service vehicles and at stops and stations, and within 200 metres of a school, a crèche or a local authority playground, will be prohibited,
• alcohol advertising in a cinema will be prohibited except around films with an 18 classification or in a licensed premises in a cinema,
• children’s clothing that promotes alcohol will also be prohibited.

In three years’ time there will be a total ban on alcohol advertising and sponsorship at sporting events for children.