Of the thousands of returns submitted last year, the vast majority were categorised under the policy area of health, with over 1,420 returns.

The contentious Public Health (Alcohol Bill), aimed at reducing alcohol consumption, was cited in 111 returns from both advocates and opponents of the bill that will introduce advertising restrictions.

Groups lobbying on behalf of the drinks industry included the Vintners’ Federation of Ireland, Heineken’s Irish unit, airport operator DAA, Retail Excellence and the Responsible Retailers of Alcohol Ireland.