Written answers

Wednesday, 24 June 2009

Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform

Liquor Licensing Laws

9:00 pm

Photo of Noel AhernNoel Ahern (Dublin North West, Fianna Fail)
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Question 137: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to complaints from an association (details supplied) regarding the damaging effects of their members by the after 10 p.m. ban on off licence sales, and the damage it has done to employment, and the unfair advantage given to multiples; his plans or intentions to extend the 10 pm deadline and bring balance and fairness to the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25361/09]

Photo of Dermot AhernDermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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The Government Alcohol Advisory Group submitted its Report containing recommendations for reforms in statutory provisions on the public order aspects of the sale and consumption of alcohol in March 2008. Its key recommendations, including the recommendation that off-sales of alcohol be permitted only between the hours of 10.30 a.m. and 10.00 p.m., were subsequently accepted by the Government and were given statutory effect in the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008.

Section 4 of the 2008 Act contains the new provisions restricting the off-sales of alcohol and it has received broad public support as part of the Government's overall strategy to address the significant public disorder and hugely damaging public health aspects of excessive alcohol consumption and binge drinking. I have no plans therefore to extend the periods during which of-sales of alcohol are permitted.

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