Helen McEntee (Meath East, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

All of the facts the Deputies have outlined occur in an environment where we have a restrictive regime, where pubs are closing every week. We have about 70 nightclubs left in the country. A couple of years ago there might have been that number in three or four counties.

Alcohol is a problem for many people but we need to invest in education to change people's behaviours and attitudes. More people are drinking at home where there is absolutely no monitoring, where people can drink whatever they want for as long as they want. As far as I am concerned, people are more likely to get into a car after having a few drinks at a friend's house as opposed to being out at 2 a.m. and then deciding to get into the car. There is a perception that the provisions in this Bill will suddenly allow significantly more drinking. At the moment people are going to the off-licence, going home and drinking more at home. This would allow people to be in a more controlled environment, which I believe would help reduce some of the impacts both Deputies have outlined.

I hope to bring forward a scheme of this Bill in the coming weeks. All the concerns that have been raised are being taken into consideration. As it goes through the House, I will engage with all sides, not just those who represent the industry but also those who are concerned about the potential implications for people's health. I fully accept the concerns.

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