Seanad debates

Thursday, 24 October 2002

It is an indictment of all public representatives that over the last five years we have succumbed to pressure from publicans to extend the licensing hours. It was done in order that we could modernise our arrangements in consultation with other European countries, but the reality is a history of intoxication, hardship for families and all that goes with it. If the Minister is to be reforming, I urge him to tackle immediately the issue of opening hours and the ready availability of drink for the young. He referred to identity cards. One could have a bag of cards, but they are useless if the doors are opened and there is free availability of drink. If the Minister can prevent this and other related problems, such as drink driving and drugs, he will be remembered for a long time.

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