James Browne (Wexford, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

I thank Deputies for their contributions. This legislation arose out of the uncertainty that existed at the time. Our licensing law is quite archaic and is made up of amendment upon amendment, in many cases. The uncertainty at the time gave rise, in particular, to concerns around insurance and who was going to be responsible if anything happened. Perhaps in the past we muddled along with the little bit of outdoor hospitality which had been happening. This legislation has been a great success culturally and the amendments to the legislation have been very successful. The Civil Service team who drafted it deserve great credit because it was done at very short notice but it brought a very effective long-term solution, albeit one that has to be renewed every six months.

The proposal is to bring forward a very significant piece of reform around licensing law and a scheme is being worked on to that end. That is challenging - there is no question of that. I completed about 50 licensing applications in my time when I practised. Licensing law is a funny area in that it takes a long time to get your head around it. As Larry Gogan might have said, once you know it, it is easy. It is complicated to get your head around it initially and there is certainly a lack of plain language in it. This will take a body of work and I do not know how long that will take.

It certainly is being actively worked on and driven forward.

I agree with the Deputies who raised the issues around footpaths. While the development of outdoor facilities is very positive, we need to ensure footpaths remain accessible to people who have mobility challenges, including those who use wheelchairs. This extends to outdoor spaces and streets. We must be conscious that wheelchair spaces have been, on occasion, used for outdoor dining. That should not happen or, at the very least, alternative spaces should be provided close by.

Deputy Howlin noted that the licensed trade sector is under huge pressure. Coming off the back of the pandemic, the rising cost of living is now having an impact. As we in Wexford know only too well, there is huge difficulty in getting staff to work in the hotel industry, despite its being a very well-run industry.

I agree with Deputy Catherine Murphy's point regarding the design of our streets. The whole question of the built environment and how it is designed is hugely important. It has an impact on our environment and culture and on people's mental health. We must ensure these spaces are warm and welcoming. It is possible to design outdoor spaces in such a way as to minimise antisocial behaviour. There used to be a unit in An Garda Síochána that helped with those types of designs. It is an interesting area.

I thank all the Deputies for their contributions. I hear what they are saying. The provision of outdoor spaces has worked and it is great, but we need to get to a point where they become a permanent fixture. I do not think this Government or any alternative Government will roll back on this particular development, but there are a number of issues that need to be considered. Whatever about a scheme being ready, I do not expect legislation to be passed within six months. I certainly hope I am still in my role then and we will see where we are at that point.

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