The Government has decided that a cap on the size of stores – 3,500 sq.m. in Dublin and 3,000 sq.m. beyond Dublin – is the most balanced approach. These limits probably reflect the size of existing stores in Ireland and are probably acceptable in the light of the balance the Government wishes to strike. However, in taking this approach it is indicating that the balance of its decision favours those who are less fortunate, have less ability to travel, may not have their own means of transport and live in towns that would be denuded of shops and supermarkets were large hypermarkets allowed to develop. Decisions of this kind will have to be made.