Delay to Irish Alcohol Health Labels: A Setback, But Not the End
PRESS RELEASE
Brussels, 23 July 2025 – The European Alcohol Policy Alliance (Eurocare) expresses deep disappointment at the Irish Government’s decision to delay the implementation of mandatory health information labelling on alcoholic beverages until 2028. This decision marks a setback for public health, but it is not the end of the story, and certainly not the end of the fight.
There is strong public support across Europe for clear, factual health warnings on alcohol products. People have a right to know that alcohol increases the risk of cancer, liver disease, and harm to unborn children. Delaying these warnings does not remove the harm; it simply keeps people in the dark.
“This delay is not a reflection of public resistance,” said Florence Berteletti, Secretary General of Eurocare. “It is the result of intense lobbying behind closed doors by an industry that claims health warnings are ineffective (yet fights tooth and nail to stop them). If these labels really made no difference, why are they so afraid of them?”
“Throughout this campaign we have heard spurious industry arguments being put forward such as barriers to trade and competitiveness. However, the bottom line was actually clearly articulated by Heineken to its shareholders in its annual report - Health information labelling and actions such as Minimum Unit Pricing and advertising restrictions will lead to reduced alcohol consumption.” Dr Sheila Gilheany, CEO of Alcohol Action Ireland, explained.
Ireland had been poised to lead Europe by becoming the first country to implement evidence-based, visible alcohol health warnings, in line with World Health Organization recommendations and years of democratic legislative process. The legislation was already passed, compliant with EU law, and supported by health experts across the continent.
“This is a set back for public health policy in Ireland and indeed further afield. Ireland’s progress in health information labelling is being closely watched by other jurisdictions, Drawing back will hamper efforts to ensure consumers are provided with risks about alcohol, including cancer. It is especially frustrating as the labels were starting to appear on multiple products for sale in Ireland in advance of the deadline of May 2026.” said Dr Gilheany.
“This is not just about Ireland,” Berteletti added. “It sets a precedent that industry pressure can override public interest. But we are not giving up. Every setback makes our coalition stronger and more determined. The facts are on our side, and so is public opinion.”
Eurocare recognises the courage of public health champions in Ireland and the wider European and international community who have worked tirelessly to put this issue on the agenda. Despite this delay, the broader movement for alcohol health warnings continues to gain momentum; from civil society, from medical professionals, from the WHO and, more importantly from ordinary citizens and consumers who are increasingly aware of the health risks alcohol causes.
As recent data show, alcohol-related harm costs Europe hundreds of billions of euros every year, through cancer treatment, road traffic injuries, domestic violence, and lost productivity. Health warnings on alcohol bottles are one of the most cost-effective interventions to inform consumers about the harm alcohol can cause. Eurocare will continue to support its Irish partners, work with EU institutions, and push for alcohol labelling as part of a comprehensive European approach to reducing noncommunicable diseases. This is only one battle — the wider campaign for transparency, prevention, and people’s right to know is far from over.
ENDS
Contact
Anamaria Suciu, Policy and Advocacy Manager (
www.eurocare.org