Denis O'Donovan (Fianna Fail)

I thank the Minister of State for his time and effort. Society will thank us for passing this Bill. Since the Bill was published, there have been at least six changes or alterations made as a result of debate. Also, the Minister of State said today that some of the issues raised by the Opposition will be definitively addressed in the autumn in the other Bill that deals with alcohol related issues, and that is a ray of hope.

It is important to discuss alcohol abuse in the House. This is the third time I have been involved with legislation on the issue. We discussed the issue in the late 1980s. Today's legislation is being introduced to close off a loophole and to strengthen the law and powers of the Garda against social unrest as a result of alcohol abuse. This is good for the House. I welcome what has been achieved and thank officials, staff and the Cathaoirleach. Perhaps the Bill was a little rushed but that said, there will be opportunities when we resume to have debate on many of the issues.

While some good amendments were suggested, the Minister of State felt it was inappropriate to delay this important legislation. The legislation we have passed will be good for our communities.