Charles Flanagan (Laois-Offaly, Fine Gael)
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The statutory provisions concerning the licensing of premises for the purposes of public dancing are set out in the Public Dance Halls Act 1935 as well as sections 2 to 10 and 21 of the Licensing (Combating Drug Abuse) Act 1997 in so far as they relate to public dancing licenses. The primary purpose of these statutory provisions is to ensure the welfare and safety of persons while present at events on the premises.

The Court may also take account not only of the suitability of the premises but the impact for the parking of vehicles in the neighbourhood of the premises. Compliance with relevant fire safety standards and availability of appropriate public liability insurance are essential requirements. Applications for renewal of existing licences are made to the annual licensing District Court. I am informed that where, for whatever reason, an application for renewal of a public dancing licence is not dealt with, the existing licence will continue in force until the application is finally dealt with at a subsequent sitting of the Court.