Labour Chief Whip no problem with TDs ‘drinking on the job’ – he should have, says Sinn Féin

» John Hedges

An Phoblacht Editor

‘If a TD has a pint or two I don’t think that’s a problem for me and I don’t think it’s a problem for the citizens of the country either’ – Labour Party Chief Whip Emmet Stagg

TDs ‘drinking on the job’ in Dáil votes and debates DOES bother many people, Sinn Féin President Gerry Adams TD has said in reply to Labour Party Chief Whip Emmet Stagg telling TV3 that it isn’t a problem for him or the public.

At least 17 TDs admitted in a survey for the Midweek programme to taking a drink before returning to the Dáil chamber to take part in a debate or vote.

Deputy Stagg said on the programme on Wednesday:

“If a TD has a pint or two I don’t think that’s a problem for me and I don’t think it’s a problem for the citizens of the country either.”

Gerry Adams says it is a problem for many people and the senior Labour Party figure is out of touch with public feeling.

“TDs should not be drinking on the job,” Gerry Adams said. “This would be unacceptable in any other workplace. It’s the least citizens should expect from their representatives.”

The Sinn Féin leader said the Dáil Bar should be regulated the same way as any other bar.

“It is an anomaly to have a bar on the premises of a workplace, open until all hours of the morning. But to have this situation in the Dáil where important legislation affecting the lives of so many citizens is being debated is disgraceful.”

He added:

“Alcohol and alcohol-related problems are a major issue in Irish society. It is an issue which needs to be tackled by the Oireachtas and I have been raising the issue with Leinster House authorities for some considerable time but Leinster House authorities are dodging the issue.

“The latest excuse for doing nothing is that an unregulated bar is a ‘Members’ Privilege’. It is not one with which the general public will have any sympathy. I intend to pursue this matter until it is dealt with properly.”

❏  Speaking to TV3’s Midweek, Emmet Stagg TD, who is a member of the Joint Sub-Committee on Administration, confirmed that Gerry Adams’s request that the Dáil bars keep regular licensing hours had been considered and refused by the committee.