Joe Costello (Dublin Central, Labour)
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Question 315: To ask the Minister for Finance the number of off-licence premises in each of the Twenty-six Counties and the types of licence in each case; the number of new licences which have been granted in each county and the type of licences granted in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15187/06]

Brian Cowen (Laois-Offaly, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the annual licensing year ends on 30 September. I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of off-licence premises in each of the Twenty-six Counties and the type of licence in each case, as at 30 September 2005, are as follows:

The high number of wine off-licences arises from section 36 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000, which repeals section 61 of the 1927 Act and section 28(1) of the 1962 Act, thereby allowing convenience stores and shops to sell wine off the premises. Prior to that only chemists and druggists or the holder of a spirit and beer off-licence could obtain a wine off-licence.

It has not been possible within the time available, due to the large amount of research required, to assemble the data requested in respect of new licences granted in each of the past five years. However, this data is being assembled and will be forwarded to the Deputy.