Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Since last Monday's comments by the Taoiseach, Tipperary publicans have been distraught and demoralised. We all want to have a Christmas and enjoy it, but the policy of the continued closure of pubs over Christmas has destroyed Christmas for publicans and their dependent families. It spells financial disaster for them. Unlike other countries across Europe, Ireland has victimised publicans. We are fooling ourselves if we believe house parties and social gatherings will not happen over Christmas. People have been through one of the toughest years in living memory. They will celebrate Christmas because they need to do so and alcohol will be part of that celebration. It would be much better if we celebrated Christmas in the controlled and much safer environment of a pub, where the publican would ensure proper rules are followed and behaviour is monitored. The publican will police his customers and if need be, the Garda will police the pub owner. That is the way it should be. Publicans have generations of experience. They are responsible, trustworthy and capable of opening for business in a safe manner.

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