FASD Ireland notes with concern the Cabinet’s decision yesterday to defer the implementation of health information labelling on alcohol products until 2028. This measure, originally a key provision of the Public Health (Alcohol) Act 2018 and a central recommendation in the HSE’s 2022 Position Paper on the Prevention of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), was due to come into effect in May 2026.

Speaking from FASD Ireland’s Headquarters in Ennis, Co. Clare, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, Mike Taylor said:

“This decision represents a significant setback for public health in Ireland. The delay undermines years of progress and consensus on the importance of providing clear, evidence-based information to consumers about the risks associated with alcohol, particularly during pregnancy. 



The HSE Alcohol Programme have worked tirelessly on alcohol labelling in collaboration with many actors in the health and advocacy sphere and we are deeply sorry to see that work, particularly as identified in the Position Paper on FASD Prevention, now kicked to touch in favour of siding with blatant disinformation from the alcohol industry by Government.

“FASD Ireland, alongside over 80 public health and advocacy organisations, has actively engaged with members of the Oireachtas in recent months to support the timely implementation of alcohol labelling. Despite strong support from those who engaged with us, the Government has opted to postpone this critical measure.

“We are concerned that this reversal appears to have been influenced by misinformation regarding the potential impact of labelling on exports. It is important to clarify that the proposed labelling requirements apply only to alcohol products sold within Ireland and would not affect exports. Unfortunately, this distinction has been lost in the noise, in large part due to disinformation from the alcohol industry, and their PR and lobbying apparatuses.

Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) is a lifelong, irreversible neurodevelopmental condition caused by prenatal alcohol exposure. Ireland has the third highest estimated prevalence globally, with approximately 1 in 10 babies now being born in Ireland with FASD. Alcohol is a known teratogen that crosses the placenta and can affect foetal development.

“Our position has always been clear: people have the right to accurate information so they can make informed decisions, especially when it comes to alcohol and pregnancy. This delay risks prolonging public misunderstanding and may contribute to continued harm. Alcohol can harm a developing baby even before pregnancy is confirmed. That’s why no amount of alcohol by either parent is considered safe in the six weeks before conception, at conception, or throughout pregnancy.”

FASD Ireland urges the Government to reconsider this decision and to reaffirm its commitment to evidence-based public health policy.

ENDS