Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I have no problem proceeding with the bill today, but I think it is important to note that the review that is under way now -- and a meeting was just held in my constituency -- may well lead to changes that will supersede even these amendments. For example, there is a body of opinion in my constituency that the drinking age should be raised from 19 to 21. There is a strong feeling that there should be greater community control, even to the point of granting communities the authority to approve and police licences.
I realize, Mr. Chairman, that the timetable for preparing major amendments and an overhaul of the Liquor Act is that work would be done in time to present recommendations to the next Legislative Assembly. I am not saying we should prevent these amendments from going ahead because that review is under way. I think it should be noted on the record now, that this whole act may be radically revised as a result of the review process and public hearings which are now under way and will be held following the legislative action paper, which I think the Minister is committed to tabling by the next session.
So we should approve these amendments with that in mind; that, in fact, 19 may become 21 and there may be a whole new licensing regime. Having said that, I am pleased to approve these amendments. If I have described the consultation process wrong, I am sure the Minister will straighten that out, but it is as I understand it. Thank you.