Public Health (Alcohol) Act

6.2.2019

Question for written answer E-000710-19
to the Commission
Rule 130
Esther Herranz García (PPE) , Gabriel Mato (PPE) , Antonio López-Istúriz White (PPE)

In October 2018, Ireland adopted the Public Health (Alcohol) Act, which may well contravene the TFEU. In particular, for the first time anywhere in the EU, labels may carry a warning on the supposed link between alcohol consumption and cancer.

Since a direct connection between alcohol consumption and cancer has not been scientifically proven, this law — which has yet to be rolled out in regulatory form by the Republic of Ireland — is disproportionate and might mislead consumers.

1. Has the Commission assessed whether this Irish law complies with Article 36 TFEU, which allows for barriers to trade be introduced on grounds of public health, provided that decision is not taken arbitrarily?

2. What are its view on this newly‐adopted Irish provision?