Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Wednesday, 9 Dec 1998

Vol. 498 No. 2

Written Answers. - Liquor Licensing Laws.

Austin Deasy

Ceist:

236 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals, if any, he has emanating from the EU for the harmonisation of the liquor licensing laws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [27002/98]

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

My Department is not aware of any proposals emanating from the EU for the harmonisation of the liquor licensing laws.

The Deputy will be aware, from previous statements in the House, that a review of the licensing laws is currently taking place in my Department following publication of the report on liquor licensing laws by the Sub-Committee on Legislation and Security of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Justice, Equality and Women's Rights as well as the interim report of the Competition Authority.

My officials are proceeding with examination of the question of legislative proposals. It is my intention to bring forward proposals for the Government's consideration in the early part of the new year.