Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Mr. Chairman, I've listened fairly carefully to the comments that my honourable colleagues have been making with regard to this motion. Personally, I felt the debate to be very interesting and I'm pleased that other Members have spoken out on the issue. I want to indicate to the Members that I feel strongly that we're not going to get anywhere by pretending that the alcohol problem doesn't exist. And I do know, Mr. Chairman, that we all know how this Assembly developed a zero tolerance for violence principle. We all know that statistics reveal that in the majority of violent cases, the offender is under the influence of alcohol.
I believe, Mr. Chairman, that until we make every attempt to address the underlying problem, such as alcohol abuse, it will be difficult to achieve zero tolerance for violence. In fact, we'll struggle for many years to come. However, Mr. Chairman, I feel this dialogue is very valuable. I also realize that it's a complex issue and that all Members may need to consult with their constituents, as many Members have commented.
Mr. Chairman, perhaps it would be useful to provide Members with an opportunity to do just that. I suggest that all Members may want to consult with their constituents to find out whether they would like a plebiscite held on this issue when the territorial election is held this fall. From the start, Mr. Chairman, I have believed that the people of Fort Smith would favour the opportunity to have such a vote, but I realize that things may be different in other constituencies. And, Mr. Chairman, I respect that. I recognize the importance of our comments in assisting the government to develop a framework for liquor laws in the next Assembly. I believe, at the very least, I brought the awareness to this House.
The last time liquor laws were revised was, I believe, in excess of 20 years ago, if not 25. So Mr. Chairman, at this point, I would like to withdraw my motion in order to give other Members a chance to determine the views of their constituents. If there is support for the idea of a plebiscite, perhaps another Member can introduce a similar motion at a later time. Thank you.