Feargal Quinn (Independent)

When I first read the amendment, I felt I should support it. However, having listened to the Minister's comments, I am impressed by one feature of the intoxicating liquor Bill, namely, the ability of a judge to close a premises, or part of it, for a short period. I am reminded of the introduction of the system in rugby football whereby a player can be sent to the sin bin for a period of ten minutes. Previously, if a rugby player misbehaved, the only penalty available was to put him off the field for the duration of the match. Such action usually had a bad effect. Once the sin bin was introduced, a short term penalty became available – perhaps somewhat like purgatory – whereby the player was sent off for ten minutes and could then return. In that way the match was not ruined and, accordingly, referees could use this facility much more frequently.

I understand from the Garda that this effect is now being achieved in relation to licensed premises, as a result of the ability of a judge to close all or part of a premises, even if only for a few hours as might be required. I understand this option is now being exercised by judges to a considerable extent. On that basis, I have to agree that the amendment is not, perhaps, as necessary as I had thought initially. I have changed my position accordingly.

Amendment, by leave, withdrawn.