Mr. Donall O'Keeffe:

We argue strongly that the pub is a controlled and social environment in which to consume alcohol. It is controlled from two angles. There is control by the management and staff, and publicans take their responsibilities very seriously in this regard. No publican wants his pub full of people drunk out of their minds. It is not an attractive atmosphere and does not attract good regular business. It is in the publican's own professional and business interest to control that environment. Second, there is the social control from other customers. Consumed socially, alcohol is very enjoyable. A customer can meet people and have a drink and a chat. It is a very positive thing to do. From my perspective, representing publicans, it is the best environment in which to consume alcohol.