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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