Geraldine Feeney (Fianna Fail)

On Second Stage I suggested that there be staggered times during the summer for older children. I came to the Committee Stage debate to support Senator Bohan's request to extend the time limit to 10 p.m. for 16 and 17 year olds. There are family holiday hotels throughout the west. Families go for a meal and then to the residents' lounge for the music and dancing which children greatly enjoy.

During weddings younger children are generally sent to the room with a babysitter while the parents remain at the wedding. However, how can the provision be applied to children between 15 and 17 years of age at wedding functions or during the holidays? I implore the Minister to go a step further and consider the later hour of 10 p.m. for that age group.