Clare Publican Says "Tweaks Needed" In Laws Extending Pub And Nightclub Hours

Clare FM

A Clare publican has suggested extending pub and nightclub opening hours would give rise to more problems than solutions. The Government's Sale of Alcohol Bill, which was first tabled in 2020, would allow pubs to remain open 2:30am while nightclubs wouldn't have to close their doors until 6am. Although popular amongst some such as the nightlife lobby group Give Us The Night, the bill has drawn much controversy and Chief Medical Officer Breda Smyth has now written to Minister for Justice Helen McEntee calling for a Health Impact Assessment to be conducted. Owner of Durty Nelly's Bar and Restaurant in Bunratty, Maurice Walsh, believes extending the opening hours of pubs and clubs would put pressure on staff, Gardaí as well as the proprietors themselves.