Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Minister of State. I too wish to be associated with the thanks he gave to everybody involved. This legislation is long overdue but it is a good initiative that is badly wanted. We need to have control of tickets. It is obnoxious to see the blackmail that touts carry out, particularly on kids who are very interested in a team, or whatever.

Families were put under huge pressure to get tickets any which way. I have thankfully never bought a ticket off a tout but many people are forced to have to do so. It is, therefore, good legislation. I ask the Minister of State, although perhaps he cannot reply, when exactly it will actually be signed into law and implemented.

We need to get people back to sporting events and back to enjoying music. Musicians need to be allowed to impart their wonderful culture, heritage and entertainment for people to receive and enjoy. Let the people live again. Do not have then frightened and cowering in fear. Get them out to enjoy society and concerts and a few sets and rincí agus rudaí mar sin freisin. People are waiting and eager to bolt out of lockdown and out of their houses like young calves let out into the field from the shed. They go wild for a while. They do not go really wild but they want to get out faoin spéir.

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