asked the Minister for Justice if he has seen reports of the introduction of a system described as the locker-lounge system whereby facilities are provided by a publican to enable customers to consume intoxicating liquor in a nearby unlicensed premises after the ordinary opening hours of public houses; if he is aware of the serious threat posed by this development to the proper enforcement of the licensing laws in accordance with the intentions of the Oireachtas and of the dangers to young people which uncontrolled drinking of this kind could lead to; and, if so, what action he proposes to take in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Consumption of Intoxicating Liquor: Locker-Lounge System.
12.
I have seen newspaper reports regarding what is described as a "locker-lounge" system and it has been represented to me that publicans, hoteliers and clubs in other parts of the country are considering the adoption of this system.
I think it well, therefore, to take this opportunity to state that I shall not hesitate to ask the Government for authority to introduce legislation to stop it, if the existing law proves to be inadequate in practice.
I am making this statement now so that it will be understood by all concerned that anybody who adopts the system does so at his own risk.
I hope the Minister does not consult the Attorney General on that also.