Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I recognise the importance of craft breweries for a number of reasons, not least the provision of employment, the production, marketing, sale and distribution of excellent Irish product, as well as that of the tourism industry. I do not think it was ever the intention that this tourism-prompted Bill would, in effect, lead to a new off-licence regime, particularly in places where many pubs in close proximity are struggling, in both rural and urban areas. I will not introduce a new element in the licensing code.

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