Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

I move amendment No. 6:

In page 14, line 14, after "time," to insert "but not less than twice a year".

This amendment relates to the publication of objections or representations made to the Minister with regard to applications for licences. We are trying to ensure a strong level of transparency in the application process in order that access to objections or representations made that may have an impact on a licensing decision would be available to the public and that the public would be aware of them. The section suggests the Minister may make such information available from time to time at his or her discretion. We want to ensure it would happen not less than twice a year at least. We consider this would encourage transparency and be of benefit to the overall process. "Transparency" and "accountability" have become buzzwords in recent years but we must ensure there is both. This amendment would help in that regard.