Category: press-release

White Outlines Key Policy Initiatives to Tackle the Damaging Misuse of Alcohol in Ireland Speaking at a Public Meeting on Alcohol Awareness, Ennis, Co. Clare

11th September 2013

I am delighted to be here this evening and I would like to thank Michael McNamara for inviting me to address the meeting, and to congratulate him for taking this initiative to encourage public debate on alcohol awareness. This meeting – which has as its purpose the mobilising of public awareness and support for the introduction of minimum unit pricing, and other measures to curtail the pervasiveness of alcohol advertising and sponsorship – is timely, given that these matters are set to be discussed again within government in the coming weeks.

Alcohol is associated with many aspects of Irish social and cultural life; it’s central to so many of our social occasions.  But we cannot deny the truth – that there is significant misuse of alcohol in Ireland, and that as a society we must be concerned about the damage of this misuse, especially amongst our younger generation.

Our difficulty with alcohol is that its consumption for social enjoyment is so often overshadowed by the harm and health problems it causes when it is misused or consumed in a harmful and hazardous way.  We are all too well aware of the damage that problem drinking can do - harming the individual him or herself - but regrettably also harming the lives of families and even a wider circle of colleagues and friends.  As a society, we have to rethink our relationship with alcohol.

Since my Department produced the report of the National Substance Misuse Strategy Steering Group in February of last year we have been working to bring to Government for decision a package of measures which, taken together, will help to reduce our societal levels of alcohol consumption to an OECD average. Principally these measures will tackle major drivers of alcohol consumption namely price, access and availability, marketing and promotion.

Let me remind you of four findings reported by the Substance Misuse Steering Group last year: Alcohol:

  • Was responsible for at least 88 deaths every month in 2008;
  • is a contributory factor in half of all suicides and in deliberate self-harm;
  • cost an estimated €3.4 billion in 2007 to the healthcare and justice system, the economy, and through alcohol-related road accidents;
  • 1 in 4 deaths of young men were estimated to be due to alcohol in 2008.

This evening I’d like to focus a little on the merits of Minimum Unit Pricing. This initiative is a key part of our strategy to deal with alcohol misuse. Minimum unit pricing is a mechanism that imposes a statutory floor on price levels for alcohol products that must be legally observed by retailers.  It works by increasing the price of alcohol that is cheap relative to its strength. The objective of this measure is to reduce overall consumption by targeting risk levels of alcohol consumption, especially by those who drink in a harmful and hazardous way. It will also impact children and younger adults by discouraging them from purchasing alcohol.

There is evidence that harmful and hazardous drinkers tend to purchase disproportionate amounts of cheap alcohol – irrespective of the income level of the drinker. Increasing the price of such cheap alcohol using minimum unit pricing should lead to a reduction in the consumption of alcohol by such harmful drinkers.

The Scottish Executive have placed Minimum Unit Pricing at the heart of their strategy Changing Scotland’s Relationship with Alcohol: A Framework for Action.

And while they have faced strenuous industry opposition, they have recently won a High Court challenge to the policy by the alcohol industry which presumably sees it as a threat to their sales and underlying profits. The High Court judge opined that it was not an aim of minimum unit pricing to eradicate alcohol consumption; nor was it an aim   to increase the cost of alcohol for all drinkers. Rather, the measures are intended to strike at alcohol misuse and overconsumption and to get people to form a “healthy and sensible relation with alcohol”.

Turning now to the measures on marketing and promotion of alcohol and sponsorship by the alcohol industry of major sporting events. Sport has always made a positive contribution to the health of our people. However, I believe that alcohol involvement with sport and the pursuit of excellent sporting performance are simply incompatible. We must aim to extract alcohol from sporting experiences.

Parents and teachers tell our children that alcohol can be dangerous and must be approached very carefully.  Yet children are constantly exposed to advertisements on television, and in cinemas, and elsewhere at all hours of the day telling them that drink is fun, is consumed by cool and good-looking young people, and is an essential part of social success. How do we expect children to receive a clear message?

Sports coaches tell our children and teenagers that good sporting performance and good health are generally incompatible with significant alcohol consumption.

Throughout our communities there are massive billboards -  ads on bus stops, on buildings and on buses – representing booze as an experience that helps you transcend your mundane life and enter a world of beautiful people, sporting success and happiness.  Meanwhile throughout these communities there are supermarkets, off licences petrol stations and even newsagents selling ‘naggins’ of vodka for a fiver and bottles of beer for less than 50 cent.

There is a clear disconnect between what we as a society tell our young people about alcohol, and what they are actually hearing and seeing in their everyday lives.

Last year the drinks industry spent over €39m on advertising alone in the Irish market. This takes no account of their ‘below-the-line’ promotion spend or specific drink advertising/promotion by the major multiples. National sports bodies have indicated that alcohol sponsorship is valued at somewhere in the region of a further €30m. If that figure is correct, it might suggest that the Drinks Industry is allocating 40% of annual marketing and promotion budgets to sponsorship – clearly a significant instrument in their marketing strategies.

Government is considering the measures I’ve discussed here this evening and other recommendations in the Substance Misuse report launched last year. We have consulted and negotiated intensively with other Government colleagues. Of course we have to weigh up all of the different arguments before proceeding. Governments across Europe and elsewhere have already taken measures; others are considering measures that we are also addressing.  It is my earnest hope and expectation that we will reach agreement on a finalised package of measures shortly.

It is very encouraging to see so many representatives from the community and various organisations who obviously care about the dangers of alcohol misuse that we face in our modern society.  I wish you well in your endeavours to raise public awareness and, working together, we can successfully achieve our goals.

No Justification for Second Chamber - White Speaking at the Launch of Labour Party Seanad Referendum Campaign

10th September 2013

The case for abolishing the Senate is that there is no case for keeping it.

We do not need two chambers in our parliament. One properly-functioning, directly elected chamber is perfectly sufficient in a modern democracy such as ours.

The State can do without a house of parliament that so few of its citizens know about, care about, or would miss. The role of Seanad Éireann is unclear and its composition and electoral process are utterly unintelligible to most people. 

Some are now arguing for a directly elected Senate. But there would be no point at all in having two houses that are both directly elected by the people as a whole. Apart from anything else, if both could claim the same popular mandate, how would a difference between them be resolved?

There is a view that the Senate acts as a brake on government power and should therefore be retained. But it is nothing of the kind. It replicates the Dail in practically every respect, especially in regard to its political make-up. It was constructed precisely to ensure that it would not be a rival body to the Dail, which is the “House of Representatives” according to Article 15 of the Constitution.

As we look to our future, after the economic catastrophe of the banking collapse, we need to renew our democratic institutions. A strengthened Dail is essential, but there is no convincing case for retaining the Senate.

Alex White to be Labour’s Director of Elections for referendum to abolish Seanad

5th September 2013

Labour Party TD for Dublin South and Minister of State for Primary Care, Alex White, will be Labour’s Director of Elections for the two upcoming referenda to abolish Seanad Eireann and to establish a Civil Court of Appeal.

Minister White, who served in the Seanad from 2007 to 2011, will be Labour’s chief spokesperson throughout the campaign.

Speaking ahead of the campaign, Minister White commented, “The abolition of the Seanad is one element of our package of reforms to change the way politics and government works.

“The role and purpose of Seanad Eireann has been debated over many years. We in the Labour Party have taken a long hard look at the Senate, and rather than maintain it on the basis of a role it potentially could have, we believe there is no function the Seanad can perform that cannot be done by a strengthened Dáil Éireann.

“For that reason, we will be running an active campaign over the next four weeks, arguing the rational case for the abolition of the Seanad. Our campaign will be formally launched next week and will be supported by Labour Party representatives, activists and members, throughout the country.”

Alex White TD Welcomes Proposals for Fairer Schools Admissions

3rd September 2013

Dublin South TD, Alex White has welcomed the proposals by the Minister for Education and Skills to make admissions policies in primary and secondary schools fairer, and more student and parent-friendly.

“Reforms to make the enrolment system of schools more equitable for children and parents will include ending lengthy waiting lists and banning the practice of seeking money in order to secure a place at a school. There will also be a limit of 25% on the number of past pupils’ children that a school may enrol in any school year.

“Also, interviews of parents or children ahead of enrolments will no longer be allowed. Under the proposals, there will be a simplified school-level arrangement for enrolment appeals to avoid parents needing to take expensive legal action against a school. Under these proposals, schools will continue to be allowed to prioritise places for siblings of an existing or former student.

“I’m acutely aware from Constituents’ representations of the challenges many children face in gaining acceptance to the school of their choice. Regrettably, some schools put barriers in place that put children at a disadvantage – especially those who may have special needs, be new to our locality, or are from an economically deprived background.

“I’m delighted that these proposals will ensure that each child is treated equally when they apply for a place in a school – that’s the least our children deserve.”

Alex White TD Congratulates Leaving Certificate Students

12th August 2013

Alex White, TD for Dublin South, has sent his best wishes and congratulations to the Class of 2013 who will receive their Leaving Certificate results tomorrow.

“It can be a daunting time for students and parents when the Leaving Certificate results are released. I want to congratulate students who worked hard to achieve their grades and I also want to acknowledge their teachers, parents and guardians who supported them.

“It’s important at this time to reassure and encourage people who did not do as well as they may have liked. Don’t give up and be disheartened. There are many paths that lead to success and your Leaving Certificate results don’t define you and your talents.

“I want to alert students to a Leaving Certificate Helpline run by the National Parents’ Council and supported by the Department of Education. With this service, qualified guidance counsellors will give advice and support to both students and their parents. The helpline phone number is 1800 265 165 and it will open at 8am tomorrow, Wednesday August 14th.”

For students wishing to continue their education at Third Level, the first-round of CAO offers will be available on Monday, August 19th from 6am. The CAO process will continue into September with second round offers being made available.

Working for a healthy Ireland and for equity in our health system

8th August 2013

The Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill

  • The Protection of Life during Pregnancy Bill was passed by the Oireachtas in July and recently signed into law by President Higgins.
  • This has been a longstanding policy objective of the Labour Party. We can be proud of our work and see it as a major achievement in Government. However, the debate goes on and we must lead the discussion as we always have in the past.
  • This milestone legislation will provide much needed clarity for women and medical professionals as to the circumstances where a termination is permissible in this country. While limited in its effect, the legislation required protracted work and input, and I was pleased to contribute to this along with my colleague Minister Kathleen Lynch.

 

GP Care without Fees

  • In the spring I advised the Cabinet that the previously proposed implementation plan for the introduction of GP Care without fees was overly complex, and probably unworkable. At a minimum, this key policy was likely to be further delayed if kept in its current form.
  • Recently at the Cabinet Committee on Health I presented a series of options on the phased introduction of GP Care without fees. These proposals will be carefully considered between now and the budget, when I am confident we can make progress on this important Labour goal.
  • It is my preference that school-going children should be in the first cohort of the population to benefit from free access to GP Care.
  • The provision of GP care without fees is a vital first step in ensuring that healthcare is provided on the basis of need and not ability to pay. It is also an essential element of a radically reformed healthcare system to meet the many future challenges we face.

 

Public policy initiative on reducing the consumption of alcohol

 

  • In May I presented a Memo to Government proposing a comprehensive set of measures to address pricing, access, availability and the marketing of alcohol.
  • I am confident that Government will approve the drafting of a General Scheme of a Public Health (Alcohol) Bill in early autumn. This will be the first time ever that alcohol is properly addressed as a public health issue in this country.
  • This major public health policy has not been without its critics, especially from the alcohol industry. I do of course appreciate the concerns expressed by national sporting bodies. However, the objective is to tackle the huge economic and social harm caused by excessive alcohol consumption in Ireland, and to try to protect our youngest and most vulnerable from alcohol misuse.

 

Tackling the problem of Drugs

  • I have responsibility also for the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy. Earlier this year I published a set of structural reforms to the management and oversight of the strategy in order to make it more effective in tackling drug addiction.
  • There will be further progress in the autumn on coordinating and stream-lining the structures through which we manage the national strategy. I am determined to ensure that all departments and agencies are working well with the community and voluntary sectors, especially in the light of the many new challenges we face in this area.

 

There is much that can, and is, being achieved – even in tough financial times.

If we are serious about our policy goals of creating a healthier society, and building an equitable healthcare system for all, the only place to do this is in government.

I look forward to resuming this vital work after the summer break.

Summer Activites for All in South Dublin

1st August 2013

With children on summer holidays and families enjoying the fantastic weather, Alex White TD wants to alert people to the many free events and activities that are taking place across South Dublin.

“It really has been tremendous to see people enjoying the weather over the summer and getting out in the fresh air and being active. The good weather creates a positive atmosphere, which is beneficial for us all. I want to make sure people are aware of some excellent free events taking place throughout August. There will be free outdoor movie screenings in Marlay Park on Saturday August 10th and Sunday August 11th.

“For those who prefer something a little more active, there are free 5k runs that take place in Marlay Park every Saturday morning at 9.30 am. Runners of all standards are welcome. To participate, simply register here:http://www.parkrun.ie/marlay/

“If you’re an outdoors or nature enthusiast, a bushcraft course is taking place in Marlay Park on Sunday August 18th from 10am-12pm where people can learn survival skills. On Friday August 30th an evening bat walk will take place in Marlay Park at 8.45pm.

“I’m delighted that the Summer of Heritage Programme is returning again. The idea of Summer of Heritage is to help people see the wonderful history on our doorsteps.  Tours of the stunning 18th Century Cabinteely House are taking place every Wednesday and Sunday for free until September 1st between 2-5pm. A free historic tour of Dundrum will take place every Wednesday in August at 7pm and the starting point is the Barton Road roundabout. A free-guided tour of the Obelisk in Stillorgan will take place every Saturday in August from 2-5pm. The beginning of the tour begins at Carysfort Woods on Carysfort Avenue.

“For families hoping to head out and about at the weekends, ‘the Summertime Kids go Free Weekend’ deal is in place on the Luas until the end of August. Each adult with a valid Luas ticket may take up to two children aged 3-15 years free of charge on the Luas. Children under 3 always travel free on the Luas.”

To find more information on these free outdoor activities please go to http://www.dlrevents.ie or email [email protected]

The Passing by Seanad Eireann of the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill

22nd July 2013

Twenty-one years after the X case, the enactment of the Protection of Life legislation is a significant landmark.

That said, what the Oireachtas has done tonight is no more than should be expected of us: to give expression in statute to a constitutional right – one that cannot be disputed to exist – and in doing so, to provide a procedure through which that right may be exercised.

During the course of the debate, it was said that this was all about satisfying a Labour Party manifesto commitment. Of course, this is not about any one party, but I am deeply proud of what has been done tonight, and pleased that this commitment has been honoured, with very considerable cross-party support in both Houses, and by such an overwhelming majority.

This issue has always been one that relates principally to women’s lives. I believe strongly that it is also an issue of women’s rights. Many women – and men – are disappointed that more could not have been done in this legislation. But we must honestly accept, irrespective of our point of view, that what has now been enacted by the Oireachtas is no more, and no less than what the people have provided for in their Constitution, as interpreted by the Supreme Court some 21 years ago in the X case.

For any further changes to occur will require an amendment to the Constitution, which can only be done by the people in a referendum. I believe there is a strong case for such a referendum in the future - in the not too-distant future, I hope.

Any change will be for the people to decide. For now, as legislators, we have done our duty by the people.

Alex White TD Welcomes New Initiatives for Unemployed

3rd July 2013

Minister of State, Alex White TD has welcomed the Government launch of the JobsPlus initiative which will incentivise employers with up to €10,000, if they employ a person who is long term unemployed.

“Government is listening to business owners and employers and is finding new ways to encourage the recruitment of the unemployed. We want to remove the barriers that exist to get people back to work. We cannot underestimate the corrosive impact of unemployment – it’s the biggest challenge facing our community.

“With this simple scheme, employers can access up to €10,000 for a qualifying recruit, payable on a monthly basis over a two year period. Both employers and employees can register for the JobsPlus scheme by registering online atwww.jobsplus.ie. 197,508 people in Ireland are currently eligible for this scheme which is designed to help them get off social welfare and back into work.”

This welcome announcement came in the final days of Ireland’s Presidency of the EU Council, where Ireland and its European partners committed to providing €6 billion to help combat youth unemployment across Europe and in Ireland through the Youth Guarantee.

Minister White said: “These funds will be spent to implement the Youth Guarantee. This Guarantee will offer a young person from 2014 quality employment, training, an apprenticeship or further education within four months of finishing their education or becoming unemployed.”

Alex White TD Welcome 6,000 Free Education & Training Places for Unemployed

24th June 2013

Alex White TD has welcomed the announcement by Minister Ruairi Quinn that an additional 6,000 free part-time higher education places are being made available under the Springboard programme to provide re-training opportunities to jobseekers.

Speaking about the €23 million investment by the Department of Education and Skills, Alex White TD said:

“There will be 3,525 new Springboard programme places in Dublin, with a total of 6,000 places nationally. 85 free Springboard courses will be provided in Dublin and will be directly accessible to Dublin South jobseekers. Institutions providing the Springboard training programmes include the Dublin Institute of Technology, the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology, the Dublin Business School, the National College of Ireland, IBAT College Dublin and the Digital Skills Academy.

“I welcome the fact that over 80% of these courses will provide a work placement for participants, meaning that people are getting hands-on experience as well as academic qualifications.

“Despite the unemployment problem in Ireland and in Dublin South, there are industries in Ireland such as the ICT sector where underemployment is an issue. Springboard will address this skills shortage by giving jobseekers the re-training they need to find employment in these growing industries.

“The Springboard qualifications will concentrate on growth areas such as Information Technology, Communications, International Languages and International Financial Services.”

Over 2,000 job seekers have successfully returned to work in the past year on completion of a Springboard course.  Courses are free, part-time, and are at certificate, degree and postgraduate level.

To be eligible for a place on a Springboard course a person must be unemployed, actively seeking employment, and be in receipt of one of the qualifying Department of Social Protection payments or be signing for credits or be previously self employed. There is no requirement to be in receipt of a payment for a particular period of time prior to the commencement of the programme. However, providers will be required to give priority to applications from people who are long term unemployed.

Applications can now be made on www.springboardcourses.ie A freephone Guidance line 1800 303 523 is available to offer advice on course choices and applications.

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