As part of the National Substance Misuse Strategy by the Government, it is expected a working group will examine whether or not to introduce a minimum alcohol price per unit. It will likely form a centerpiece of the overall strategy, with the controversial proposed ban on alcohol sponsorship of sports said to be postponed.

Speaking to The Irish Examiner, Conor Cullen of Alcohol Action Ireland says "we're delighted that the government is going to push ahead with introducing a minimum price for alcohol - which essentially is a floor price beneath which alcohol cannot be sold. What this will do is it'll target the very cheapest and strongest alcohol products which are sold, primarily in our supermarkets."

Evelyn Jones is Chairperson of the National Off Licence Association. She told Breakfast here on Newstalk that the introduction of a base price for alcohol has to be fair for consumers and vendors:

An Act on minimum pricing has been passed in Scotland at 50p per unit, although its implementation has been delayed. The European Commission is examining whether or not to allow Scotland an exemption to existing trade regulations. Various British trade bodies have tried to legally challenge the proposed Act, while prominent alcohol exporting countries such as France and Italy have also objected to the Alcohol (Minimum Pricing) (Scotland) Act 2012.

Those in favour of minimal pricing suggest many benefits of its implementation. Foremost is that it would help cut down on alcohol abuse by restricting the sale of cheap drink. This could lead to major benefits for public health, a fall in crime levels and hospital admittances, and associated financial savings for the Government.

Critics of minimum pricing argue that it is anti-competitive, restricting the ability of alcohol retailers and producers to sell products at consumer and business friendly prices. As mentioned above, there are also concerns such a restriction would be in breach of international trade agreements. However, others suggest that the pricing could actually benefit businesses by implementing uniform higher prices.

Do you agree with proposals for a minimum alcohol price? Do you think the benefits outweigh the negatives? Would it make any significant difference in challenging alcohol abuse in Ireland, or is it just a regulation too far? Vote in our poll and leave your comments below.