Jim O'Callaghan (Dublin Bay South, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Most publicans do honour and obey the law. It is also fair to say that if people are drinking, they are nearly better off drinking in a public house where they can be watched by the staff and a general assessment of whether they have had too much can be made. However, we must recognise the terrible ongoing effects alcohol can have on young men and the fact that it can lead to these tragic circumstances. Just because we presume that most of the licensing laws are obeyed should not prevent ongoing enforcement. I know An Garda Síochána takes the enforcement of the licensing laws seriously. We need to recognise that when somebody is not licensed serve alcohol, serving it to people late at night is dangerous. The licensing laws are there for a reason, not just for the licensed premises but to protect the public. People will keep drinking unless places close and we need to ensure the laws are enforced.

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