asked the Taoiseach whether in view of the representations made on both the Second Stage and Committee Stage of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960 by Members he will indicate the circumstances under which he informed a deputation from the Irish County Vintners' Association that he had received no representations from Members that late closing hours in licensed premises during summer months should coincide with the period of summer time.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Closing Hours of Licensed Premises.
3.
The Deputy's question is, I assume, based on a statement in the March issue of "The Irish National Vintner." This statement did not correctly represent what I said to the deputation.
In any case, the deputation in question came to see me to discuss their practical experience of the working of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1960, and opinions expressed in this House before the passing of the Act would not have been relevant in this context.
Is it not a fact that representations were made in this House during the discussion on the Committee Stage of the Bill that the early opening should coincide with summer time? Is it not also a fact that such representations were made by Deputies of the Fine Gael Party?
It is true that a motion was moved here during the Committee Stage of the Bill to extend the period during which the later summer hours would operate. It was defeated on a four to one vote. It obviously did not get much support from the Fine Gael Party.
The Taoiseach had representations. They did not all come from Deputy Burke.