Sean Barrett (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I second the amendment. I thank the Minister of State and his officials who offered to meet us during the week to discuss our concerns. While it was not possible, we appreciated the invitation. Like Senator Byrne and others, I also appreciate the openness in discussions with regard to this Bill and the courtesy shown by the Department’s officials in this regard.

There are many closed shops in many small towns up and down the country. There has been a decline in the volume of retail sales in town centres with a movement to out-of-town shopping centres. This was the spirit in which the amendment was proposed.