Conor Lenihan (Dublin South West, Fianna Fail)

I will do so. Every time a Government has tried to address this issue and challenge vested interests in the alcohol industry, efforts have been made to thwart it. We have reached a key juncture and if we do not introduce legislation, we will not get to grips with our national alcohol problem. Speedy legislation is required to put down a definite marker. A range of vested interests, including groceries, supermarkets, retail outlets, convenience stores and alcohol producers, would prefer a liberal approach to alcohol consumption. Unfortunately, Ireland has a serious problem with alcohol and legislation is required to restrict opening hours. The bottom line is that we have tried everything else, including having a persuasive conversation with members of the public on the matter, but it has not worked. It is, therefore, time to legislate quickly.