Joe O'Toole (Independent)

We are again in danger of going down a slippery slope. The House engaged in four hours of moralising yesterday in the debate on Second Stage. If we continue in this vein, we will introduce prohibition. Rural Ireland takes the right approach. Drink is kept in its place and can be enjoyed by local communities. The licensing laws are implemented in a practical manner, which is to be recommended. I ask the Minister to disregard the comments made by his party colleague and Senator Terry. They mean well but people are becoming over-enthusiastic. At this rate we will end up shutting pubs and shooting youngsters.