Written 7 hours ago by Newsroom

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A Laois retailer says small shops are not the cause of public drunkeness.

Anne Martin, who runs Centra in Mountrath in Laois, is one of those speaking out against proposals included in the new Alcohol Bill, being discussed by the Seanad today.

It would force shops to cover up alcohol, as well as restricting advertising and introducing minimum unit pricing.

Ms Martin says this bill blames the wrong people for causing alcohol abuse.