Martin Mansergh (Fianna Fail)

Unlike Senator Ryan, I am grateful to Iarnród Éireann for bringing me to the Seanad in good time but I agree with his comments on the lack of enforcement of the law on under age drinking.

I wish to raise an equality matter. Perhaps on an appropriate occasion the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform will come to the House to discuss the enforcement of the Equal Status Act. I am glad a prestigious golf club such as Portmarnock Golf Club will stage the Irish Open but I am distressed that it is one of two clubs which do not obey the equality law. If there is a prosecution and fine, the Bord Fáilte grant might be withheld. I am surprised that members of this club are happy to be seen as a bastion of social reaction. The law is not just for the little people but also for the big shots.