asked the Minister for Industry and Commerce whether he has considered the representations regarding the operation of the Shops (Hour of Trading on Weekdays) Order, 1947, made to him through petition by the small traders of Muine Bheag, County Carlow, in December last; and whether he will now state if it is his intention to modify the terms of the Order to meet the objections of the petitioners.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Weekday Trading Hour.
I have received representations from Muine Bheag about the hours of trading in that town. Similar representations have been made to me by traders in other areas. I am giving these representations my careful attention but am not yet in a position to announce what alterations, if any, it is desirable to make in the closing hours which are now prescribed.
In this case would it be possible for the Minister to make some representations to his colleague the Minister for Justice with a view to having any proceedings that are about to take place postponed pending his decision?
Oh, no.
Can the Minister state when he is likely to come to a decision in this matter?
I am afraid I could not give the Deputy the exact date.