Government ‘dragging its heels’ on daytime alcohol adverts ban

Measure was legislated for three years ago, but ministerial order has yet to be signed

Figures from Nielsen, the US consumer research company, show that the drinks industry spent €14 million on television advertising in 2020

The government has been accused of delaying a broadcasting ban on daytime alcohol advertising which could cost RTÉ, Virgin Media and TG4 millions in lost revenue each year.

The measure, which would prevent any alcohol advertisements being shown on domestic television stations before 9pm and after 3am, is designed to make it less likely that children would see them.

It was legislated for three years ago under the Public Health (Alcohol) act but the required ...