Gareth Scahill (Fine Gael)

I wholeheartedly support the extension of the Act. It allows for the responsible consumption of alcohol in designated outdoor seating areas. I welcome that it allows businesses to operate with clarity and certainty. It is pro-business. It is important we protect businesses and give them that clarity. It is also essential that An Garda Síochána has clarity with regard to its powers of public order service, and we need to be seen to be supporting it. What began as a temporary solution during the pandemic has proven to be a lasting and welcome transformation. Let us be honest. It spreads a new life into our towns and villages. It creates a buzz, a vibrancy and a new sense of place, and we should be building on it.

I support Senator Boyhan’s request for a letter to the CEOs of the local authorities. Permanent enactment of this measure should be done with a clear focus on accessibility reports for all of our towns, and I think that would be supported across the House. It would be a great way of serving two purposes with one Bill.

I support this motion and I support Senator Boyhan’s suggestion.