On section 1 (1) I should like to ask the Minister what is the position in regard to vodka. The Minister mentioned whiskey, gin and liqueurs but he did not mention vodka. I understand that the distilling industry are not happy about the present arrangements with regard to vodka. As this is a growing industry in the country with export potential, I should like the Minister to deal with it for the benefit of the distillers of vodka in the country.
Private Business. - Immature Spirits (Restriction) Bill, 1969: Committee and Final Stages.
Question proposed: "That section 1 stand part of the Bill".
Home-made vodka is not affected. Imported vodka cannot be sold unless it is three years in warehouse. The export prospects are not really affected.
Do I understand the Minister to say that it must be in warehouse for three years? I understand that the distilling industry want to reduce that to one year.
Home-made vodka is not affected at all. Imported vodka must be three years in warehouse.
That does not apply to home-made vodka?
No.
With respect, I should like some authority from the Minister for this proposition because "spirits" is given a particular definition in the basic Act. I understand vodka is outside that definition and that is why it is not required to be matured for three years. Whether it is home-made or foreign-made, it would be outside this restriction.
I am advised that home-made vodka is described as a home-made compound and therefore is not subject to a warehousing restriction.
It is purely a question of proof. If the imported vodka is a compound, it is outside the restriction also.
No.
It is a question of the definition of "spirits". May I ask the Minister for authority for this.
I am fortified by the authority of no less a body than the Revenue Commissioners.
With great respect, and retaining my particular respect for the Revenue Commissioners, I am unable to accept that as final authority for the satisfaction of my question.
It remains the situation until the Senator proves it to be otherwise.
The Minister has made an assertion that on all matters we must accept a statement from the Revenue Commissioners as to what the law is. I do not think if the Minister were practising as he once practised that he would be satisfied with that himself.
Question put and agreed to.
Section 2 agreed to.
Title agreed to.
Bill reported without amendment, received for final consideration and passed.