asked the Minister for Justice if he is satisfied that the locker-lounge system of supplying intoxicating liquor outside the ordinary opening hours of public houses has been discontinued; and, if not, what action he intends taking in the matter.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Sale of Intoxicating Liquor: Locker-Lounge System.
7.
I am satisfied that the position in this respect has been greatly exaggerated and that, for the present, at any rate, it is not necessary to take any steps other than to maintain strict police supervision of anyone engaging in this kind of trade.
The Garda have reported to me that only two premises in the State have been carrying on a "locker-lounge" trade and that arrangements have been made for its discontinuance in the case of one of them. I am not without hope that this kind of trade will cease altogether in the near future.
However, in order that there may be no doubt in any person's mind as to the Government's attitude in the matter I wish to repeat the warning which I gave in reply to a similar Question on 15th March that I will not hesitate to introduce legislation to stop it if the existing law proves to be inadequate for that purpose.