Tom Parlon (Laois-Offaly, Progressive Democrats)

As I said, a similar amendment has been discussed. Under subsection (4) it is provided that a person who does not comply with a closure order is guilty of an offence, and can be subject to a penalty of not more than €50 or a prison sentence not exceeding three months. If we are serious about dealing with public order offences, we must have a pretty strong Bill, and any weakening of the enforcement of the Bill would certainly render it useless. For that reason the Government cannot accept the amendment.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.

Section 5 agreed to.

Section 6 agreed to.

SECTION 7.