Charles Flanagan (Laois, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

Amendment No. 8 proposes extending the hours from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. We discussed this on Second Stage and Committee Stage. There was broad support for 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. as proposed by Deputy Alan Kelly. Were I to accept the amendment, although I am not minded to do so, I am conscious of a contradiction that appears under section 1(5) of the Bill, permitting sales between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. each day other than Christmas Day to persons who have completed a guided tour of the premises provided that the liquor was manufactured in accordance with the relevant licence. It is not as simple as changing the time from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. We are still left with the issue of the tour. I will have a look at it between now and the Seanad, if the House is disposed to allow me such reflection. If it is just an issue of extending the trading hours to 7 p.m. and if the House is minded to say to me that there appears to be consensus on the matter, I will have a look at it without dividing the House. I say that, however, having regard to the fact that the hours of 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. appear to me to cater for the needs of tourists and visitors. It might not cater for Deputy Kelly's local lads in the car loading up the boot with six-packs on a Friday evening, especially if they are coming from work, especially if they are travelling to rural Tipperary. I will have a look at it if it is just a matter of 60 minutes. I want to make sure there are not any contradictions in the Bill so I am not prepared to accept the composite proposal that is before the House. I also want to refer to the working hours of the staff and what that will mean. I am assuming that is an issue that can be managed in the microbreweries.

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