Intoxicating Liquor Bill delay
Senator O'Reilly urged postponement of the Intoxicating Liquor (Amendment) Bill, arguing it should not proceed today because of its impact on traditions, health policy, religion, tourism and workers.
I ask the Leader to postpone a decision on the Intoxicating Liquor (Amendment) Bill 2017. All Stages should not be taken today. The issue needs further reflection and consideration. It breaks a very important Irish tradition and goes against health and anti-drink strategies and policies. It is offensive to many religious groupings, will not assist tourism and is a bad proposition. It is wrong and is threatening workers' rights. The vast majority of publicans do not want it brought in. I appeal to the Leader to allow more reflection on the matter and for it to run into the autumn, at which stage there can be a wiser consideration of it. Members should not run willy-nilly to dismantle things that are important in this country.