Sejm leader Sławomir Mentzen warned that prohibiting alcohol inside the parliament would stifle informal conversations, crucial for cross‑party networking.
Mentzen Opposes Alcohol Ban
Sławomir Mentzen, the leader of the Confederation, stated that banning alcohol would make the Sejm a less human place, cutting off informal conversations that build relationships across party lines. He noted, “After alcohol, people talk better,” arguing that the bar environment allows MPs from different parties to exchange views that help them work together. Mentzen also mocked the idea of a prohibition, saying, “What does Zandberg care, who and with whom drinks beer?”
Hotel Incident Triggers Debate
The debate resurfaced after a party hosted by the ruling PiS party at the Parliament Hotel, where MPs celebrated the inauguration of a new president. The event, covered by Rzeczpospolita, drew loud singing and controversial chants, prompting intervention by the Marshal’s Guard. Although public outrage grew, most parliamentarians see no need for a ban. A Radio ZET survey found that 88% of respondents supported an alcohol ban in the Sejm, but politicians across parties remain largely indifferent.
Cross‑Party Positions on Restrictions
Robert Telus of PiS argued that restrictions would be excessive, suggesting that those who want beer can drink wherever they wish. Marcin Józefaciuk of the Civic Coalition agreed, stating that the hotel is not the parliament and that no problem arises. Bolesław Piecha also downplayed the issue, saying a glass of wine at dinner is fine. Meanwhile, Dariusz Wieczorek of the Left warned that a ban would not change anything, noting that people would simply bring their own drinks to restaurants.
