16/07/2013

Adams Critical Of Dáil Bars

Bars within the Dáil should be subject to the same licensing laws as all other bars, Gerry Adams has said.

The Sinn Féin president was speaking about the availability of alcohol within the Dáil and how bars open until 5am.

Saying that members of the Oireachtas should be sober when debating and voting on legislation, he said: "There has been an understandable focus once again on the opening hours of the Dáil bars.

"It is the intention of Sinn Féin to ensure that the sale of alcohol in these establishments is subject to the same licensing laws as every other establishment.

"It is ridiculous that alcohol is available here, as it was during the debate on the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Bill, until five in the morning.

"There is also obviously an onus on Oireachtas members to be sober and correct when debating and voting on legislation which affects every citizen in this state.

"This behaviour would not be acceptable in any other work place. This is a work place and it should not be acceptable here."

(MH/JP)

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