Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 28 Feb 2002

Vol. 550 No. 1

Written Answers. - Liquor Licensing Laws.

Deirdre Clune

Question:

165 Ms Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the licensing hours of pubs and clubs should be addressed in view of many recent incidents of violence on our streets at night; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7274/02]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue):

As Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I have responsibility for the general policy on intoxicating liquor legislation which is essentially concerned with the number and nature of licensed outlets and the persons to be licensed, as well as the times at which, and the persons to whom, liquor may be sold. This is not an easy task, nor is it something which I undertake lightly. Any change in policy requires very careful consideration and deliberation.

The question of extended hours possibly leading to an increase in alcohol-related problems was discussed in the Dáil and Seanad debates leading up to enactment of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2000. As the Deputy is aware, a sub-committee of the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality and Women's Rights had completed a review of liquor licensing in 1998 and had made a series of recommendations in relation to various aspects of the licensing code, including longer opening hours. I also engaged in extensive consultations with various interested parties prior to the passage of the 2000 Act at which the issue of extending opening hours was discussed.

With a view to continuing the important work of reforming the liquor licensing code, I established a Commission on Liquor Licensing in November 2000 with the task of reviewing the liquor licensing system in the light of all relevant factors and making recommendations for a system geared to meeting the needs of consumers in a competitive market environment, while taking due account of the social, health and economic interest of a modern society. I understand that the commission has been examining issues relating to licensing hours and that the conclusions of these deliberations will be set out in a future report. I will, of course, carefully consider any recommendations that the commission will make in this area.