Labour’s Roisin Shortall has said the link needs to be broken between sport and the promotion of alcohol. Speaking on RTÉ's News at One programme, Ms Shortall said a difficulty lies in the return alcohol industries receive in sponsoring sports events.

She said alcohol industries have access to promotional opportunities and marketing which then promotes excessive drinking, especially amongst young people.

The Irish Rugby Fooball Union has said the withdrawal of sponsorship by drinks companies of sporting events would leave a gap in revenue that could not be replaced.

Speaking On RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Philip Browne of the IRFU criticised the Department of Health for failing to work with sporting organisations.....