Timmy Dooley (Fianna Fail)

Concern has been expressed over the emergence of off-licences following changes in the habits of people consuming alcohol. The concern relates to a deficiency in the planning laws which allows someone to change the use of a premises without the approval of the planning authority. Local councillors would like an input into the change of use of a premises from another commercial activity to an off-licence. We are talking about deaths on the roads a result of drink driving but it is becoming easier for people to buy alcohol in an unregulated environment. Will the Leader consider what might be required and contact the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with a view to introducing legislation?