Ms Paula Leonard:

On the question of whether venues can stay open all night, this is generally an issue for the local authorities in respect of what stays open. Even regarding what Dr. Gilheany was recommending around being able to map where alcohol is sold and the harm in a particular area, as is done in many countries, in Ireland we know an increased number of assaults and violent incidents are associated with late-night food outlets, for example. These do not, though, sell alcohol, so the alcohol issue moves from the licensed premises to there. These are, however, issues for local authorities in respect of the local area plan. They provide for what hours fast-food outlets and all those associated premises can stay open within their own areas. It is important that cross-reference would be made to local government.