Bernard Allen (Cork North Central, Fine Gael)
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Question 52: To ask the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he agrees with the consumer strategy group's recommendation to abolish the limit on the number of pub licences awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18080/05]

Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail)
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I have noted the recommendation of the consumer strategy group regarding the abolition of the limit on the number of pub licences awarded. It is the case that this is but one of three separate recommendations contained in the group's report in relation to the alcoholic drinks sector. The consumer strategy group's report is comprehensive, covers most sectors of the economy and contains more than 30 separate recommendations whose implementation will involve a variety of different Departments and agencies. To ensure that there is a co-ordinated response to all the CSG's recommendations, the Government is establishing a high level interdepartmental committee to examine the recommendations and to report back with a detailed implementation plan within three months. The group's recommendations on the alcoholic drinks sector will obviously be considered by the interdepartmental committee as part of its deliberations.