Ann Ormonde (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister for the clarification because I thought there was something odd about it. Section 11 deals with special exemption orders. The Bill provides that the duration of exemption orders will be determined by the local authority in consultation with the Garda and health interests. While the district justice will grant the licence, the local authority will determine the duration of special exemptions. That is rather clumsy. If there is an objection it goes back to the district justice. A role is being taken away from somebody and given to the local authority. That is not how it used to be. I wonder how it will work on the ground. I welcome the local authority having more power in that area because it will give them an opportunity to get involved and to be aware of it. I was trying to think it out and decided to float it. I am not convinced it is a good idea.

I like the provision which deals with the production of evidence of age and I hope it will be implemented. That provision should be spelled out because there will be those of 25 and 26 years of age who may look 18 and they should be required to carry the evidence of age card. The Minister is doing his part well but it is a societal issue.