asked the Minister for Justice if he is prepared to discuss with representatives of the licensed trade a scheme for the faster extinction of superfluous liquor licences.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Superfluous Liquor Licences.
136.
I have already discussed with representatives of two separate organisations in the licensed trade the feasibility of implementing a scheme for a reduction in the number of licensed premises in the country. An outline scheme prepared by one of these organisations was examined closely by me on several occasions and I have explained to the organisation concerned that I could not accept it as the basis for a workable scheme. Furthermore, I explained that I could not see how any such scheme could be made to work.
I have repeatedly indicated my willingness to consider any detailed scheme submitted to me, provided it is clearly understood that any scheme to be acceptable must have regard to the interests of the general public as well as for those of the existing licensed traders.
Has the Minister indicated his general objections to the schemes already submitted?
I have, on several occasions.