438. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Health his views on whether there is an important public health aspect to excise duties for both alcohol and tobacco which account for the external societal cost resulting from the consumption of specific harmful products and ensure that such externalities are reflected in their price; if he is aware that the Commission on Taxation and Welfare, the World Health Organisation, the OECD, International Monetary Fund and the World Bank recommend that these should be increased regularly in order that they maintain their public health value; if he has concerns that alcohol excise duties have not been increased in a decade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [38523/24]

Stephen Donnelly, Minister for Health: I recognise that policy initiatives on excise duties and other taxes can significantly influence population behaviour in relation to tobacco products and alcohol products and therefore have a positive impact on individual and population health and ultimately on the health of our economy.

In that context I write to the Minister for Finance each year, in advance of the Budget, seeking increases in excise duties on tobacco products and alcohol products. These increases are likely to generate additional revenues as well as promote healthier lifestyles in adults and children and thereby enhance efficiencies in our health services.