Barry Ward (Fine Gael)
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It is. I thank the Deputy. Before I bring in Senator Ruane for the last bit, I will just say that I particularly agree with what people have said about the night-time economy because it is not just about the Sale of Alcohol Bill. Since the Covid pandemic, it seems every sector of our economy shuts at 9 p.m. That is really regrettable because services are not there for people who work late and people coming home from friends' homes. You cannot even get a pint of milk after 9 p.m. in some places. I particularly support what people have been saying about reinvigorating that economy and bringing forward measures. I hope the Bill will do that.

The simplification of the process is very important. I note that the Bill will reduce the variety of licences available. That is a really positive step. I am a barrister but I am a layperson with regard to licensing law. I know very little about it professionally. However, it seems to me that our system is grossly archaic and overcomplicated. I am of the view that, if you treat people like adults when it comes to alcohol, they are more likely to behave like adults. However, I understand that there is empirical evidence to suggest that is not the case. One of the Deputies mentioned earlier how people have to go to work. I remember discussing with a friend years ago how I believed pubs should be allowed to open all night if that is what they wanted to do. He said that people would be out drinking all night. Perhaps they would for the first night but they would then realise they had to get up for work or whatever else the next morning and would not do it again very often. A mature and modern perspective on licensing is very welcome. I appreciate everything that everybody has said.

I will point out that the officials are here to listen to what we have to say. All of this will feed into the committee's report. I am very grateful to Ms Dwyer and Ms Butler for being here. I will give the last word to Senator Ruane.