Vol. 491 No. 1
105 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a submission from an organisation (details supplied) in relation to the liquor licensing laws and opening hours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11562/98]
I can confirm that the organisation referred to by the Deputy has made submissions to my Department on the question of changes in the liquor licensing laws and that those submissions will be taken into account in the context of preparation of proposals for any legislative change in this area.
106 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is intended to have the liquor licensing laws in so far as they relate to public houses, hotels and night-clubs implemented in full in all counties; the reason this is only being carried out in a number of western counties at present; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11563/98]
It is not correct to imply that particular aspects of law enforcement are overlooked in all but a number of western counties. Detection and prosecutions take place in respect of offences — including liquor licensing law offences — in all counties.
I have been made aware, of course, that the holders of liquor licences, in certain western counties, are concerned that law enforcement, in so far as it relates to closing times etc., is more rigorous than was perhaps the case in the past and I have been made aware of the perception that there is less rigorous enforcement elsewhere.
The enforcement of the law is a matter for the Garda Síochána. I have asked the Garda Commissioner to examine what the Deputy and others have been suggesting in regard to law enforcement in the areas mentioned.
