Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)

Perhaps it should be considered by the Whips.

My learned colleague, Senator Regan, mentioned the legislation primarily concerns public order. I do not disagree entirely, but I must state that the question of the 170 theatre licences issued this year is being ignored. Unscrupulous people are taking advantage of a loophole in the existing legislation to obtain licences that were never intended to be used or abused in such a manner. This is a major worry for the Government and is possibly the main reason the legislation must be passed this session.

I do not agree with the postponement of the legislation until next October. It deals with very important issues and, if it is not concluded today, I will suggest, with respect to the House, that we sit next Tuesday and Wednesday.