James Bannon (Longford-Westmeath, Fine Gael)

Stating that no new early houses would be created is almost unnecessary, as the list has not been added to since 1962. Who is the Government fooling by making such a statement after a U-turn? It is only fooling itself.

However, one of the most important sections of the Bill gives the Garda Síochána powers to limit the impact of drunkenness, covering such areas as safety and the maintenance of public peace, allowing gardaí the right to seize alcohol where necessary, which applies to drunken disorder by groups of late night revellers rather than tired, quiet citizens enjoying the right to a drink out of normal hours.

No right-minded person in this country claims that Ireland does not have a problem with drink. It costs the State a fortune in policing and puts extra pressure on our health services throughout the country. Extra security has to be taken on in accident and emergency units at weekends when binge drinking occurs. People must be more responsible. When a person comes to the age of 16 years he or she has a duty, as a citizen of the State, to become more responsible.

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