Paddy Burke (Fine Gael)

I welcome the Minister to the House and some aspects of the Bill. Like my colleague, Senator Regan, I do not think it is acceptable that this House will not be able to make amendments. Any amendments made will not be carried through because of the Dáil schedule. I have a number of questions to ask on this legislation, which was rushed through this House and the Dáil.

An issue was raised by Senator Norris relating to down-and-outs and people we might term as "winos". When they drink in town halls or public places, what will the Garda do upon implementation of this Bill? Will they confiscate the drink or move them on? With regard to by-laws passed by local authorities either permitting or banning the drinking of alcohol in public places, what will be the position of these upon enactment of this legislation?

Section 9 of the Bill relates to the separation of alcohol products. It is an unbelievable section which gives effect to the sale of wine, with approximately 14% alcohol content, with unrestricted display while restricting products such as beer produced in this country, which has 4% or 5% alcohol content. We are making it lawful for people to sell products with 14% alcohol content, produced around the world, in an unrestricted fashion. Wine is not manufactured to any great degree in this country. Meanwhile, we are restricting the sale of drink products from this country that have only 4% or 5% alcohol content. This is poor legislation. Restrictions should apply to all alcohol or none. I urge the Minister to reconsider the provisions of the Bill, particularly section 9, because it sends out a message that people can take home products with an alcohol content of 14% but restricts the sale of Irish manufactured beer.

Section 12 provides a revised definition of bottles and containers. Does it cover the smaller spirit measures one sees distributed in plastic bags on aeroplanes?