Ireland must stay the course on alcohol labelling

The Alcohol Health Alliance, of which the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland is a founding member, today called on Government ministers to introduce, without delay, health labelling on alcohol products.

The letter outlines serious concerns about proposals to delay the introduction of Ireland’s world-leading regulations of alcohol products with health information. This follows calls from lobbyists representing the industry regarding concerns about trading tariffs.

These regulations are part of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 (PHAA).  The important, evidence-based measures contained within the Act were debated for many years, were hard fought and won in the face of significant industry opposition. A key element in the campaign was the highly credible evidence put forward by clinicians and advocates, many with direct experience of the harms from alcohol, as well as the work of the RCPI Policy Group on Alcohol.   Warning labels on alcohol products are a health issue, and the risks and harms they outline are proven, evidence-based and reflect widespread harms and deaths in Ireland.

The measures are due to come into effect in May 2026.

Read the full letter here.

As healthcare professionals and health advocates, we are calling on our Trainees, Members and Fellows, and members of the public to get in touch with your local TDs on the matter urging them to stay the course. You can do this through the Alcohol Action Ireland website here.