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Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland
  Press Statements

Orange 0rder Wants To Call Time On Licensing Proposals

17 February 2006

The Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland has stated its opposition to proposed increased licensing hours in Northern Ireland.

In a submission to the government's review on licensing hours, the Order has also opposed local councils being responsible for licensing control.

The Grand Lodge position is, however, that if licensing is handed over to local councils a transparent system must be put in place which would deal harshly with corruption.

Churches, schools and health professionals should also be involved in the local licensing forums that are proposed in the consultative document.

"The Institution sees little merit in or demand for extra opening hours, and opposes longer hours, believing that such a move would inevitably lead to increased nuisance and social problems," said Grand Master Robert Saulters.

"We would certainly not support any premises remaining open until 2am or longer. The reality in many premises is that the closing time is already exceeded by the time taken for patrons to clear from an area," he said.

Health professionals within the Institution have expressed their concerns at the impact on hospital A&E departments of the extension of drinking hours, the Order says, and it adds that the cost to the health service of additional opening hours should be considered seriously.

"We are deeply concerned at the impact of these reforms and would call on the government to recognise that Northern Ireland is different in terms of its moral outlook and culture, and legislate accordingly. We do not believe that the demand for extension of opening hours is such among the majority of the community that would ensure these proposals in their entirely would be a welcome development," Mr. Saulters concluded.

 

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