Minister for Justice Brian Lenihan is to bring proposals to Cabinet for a new body to examine the State's licensing laws for pubs and off-licences.
The new commission will also examine how best to tackle the harmful effects of alcohol abuse.
Mr Lenihan made the announcement as he launched the 2006 annual report of the Garda Complaints Board.
Earlier this week he signalled that he may consider restricting off-licence opening hours in an effort to curb excessive drinking and street violence.
Mr Lenihan said earlier in the week he will have discussions with his Government colleagues on measures to restrict the "visibility" of alcohol. He also said he would have the issue examined independently.
However, he would not be drawn today on precisely what measures he has in mind to tackle social problems resulting from alcohol consumption.
Mr Lenihan said all aspects of the matter would be examined by the new commission.
"The last commission we had on this subject did not have within its terms of reference the issue of the harmful effects of alcohol on persons personally and what harm they can do others," he said.
"It's vital that any law review in this area takes into account the harmful effects of alcohol on personal lives of individuals and also the harm it can create for others, an issue highlighted in this [Garda Complaints Board] report."
Mr Lenihan insisted the "quality" of people who get licences to operate pubs was a matter for the District Courts.
"The question of the laws in general will be looked at. That includes not just public houses it includes off-licences as well. All issues can be looked at by such a commission. I'm not going to trammel them in what they is appropriate. I have indicated that I attach a lot of importance to tighter regulation on the off-licence side.
"Some of the issues there do not fall within my department precisely, but I do want the commission to look at as many issues as possible and I will be bringing proposals to my colleagues in Government in on this in the autumn."