Kevin Humphreys (Labour) | Oireachtas source

I will not delay the Minister. I think he is enjoying his visit to the Seanad this time more than on previous occasions in recent days. I will certainly not upset his merriment.

As Senator Bacik said, it is about the responsible drinking of alcohol. In many ways moderate consumption of alcohol is good. The Bill was introduced by Deputy Alan Kelly and the Minister has helped it to get through both Houses. What I like about the Bill is that it will help to spread tourism around the country. Craft brewing and distilling allows not only for the development of a sense of place but a sense of taste because each area has a unique element to it. I remember when former Deputy Ciara Conway was promoting the Waterford blaa and she served it to people. The uniqueness of different areas is important. Small microbreweries can develop that uniqueness right across the 32 counties of Ireland. Senator Bacik gave me a route map for my summer holidays. I will now be visiting many of those women who brew such good craft beer.