asked the Minister for Justice whether he is aware of the widespread public concern about the nature of a recent Garda raid on a public restaurant in County Dublin; and if he will take steps to ensure that inspections of similar premises in future will be discreetly carried out without causing offence and annoyance to customers of well-conducted restaurants.

The Garda inspection of the licensed premises in question resulted in proceedings in the District Court in which the licensee was convicted of permitting the consumption of intoxicating liquor on the premises during prohibited hours.

I am satisfied that the Garda acted properly throughout their visit to the premises and in accordance with their duty to enforce the law.