Proposed Overhaul in Irish Pub Rules: Jail Time for Attacks on Bar Staff as Country Braces for 6 AM Opening Times
Proposed legislation in Ireland aims to criminalise the abuse or assault of bar staff, potentially resulting in fines or imprisonment. The legislation, part of the country’s efforts to modernise liquor licencing laws, may see nightclubs permitted to operate until 6 a.m.Justice Minister Helen McEntee has been actively working on revising outdated licencing laws, some over a century old. The Cabinet recently extended temporary laws allowing outdoor service for bars and restaurants, a measure introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic which will be addressed permanently in the upcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.
The Heads of Bill for the new legislation are expected to be published this month, with the full legislation going to the Dáil in February next year, allowing nightclubs to potentially open until 6 a.m. before the summer of the following year. The Oireachtas Committee on Justice is set to release its report on pre-legislation scrutiny, proposing 27 changes and amendments addressing health concerns and worker-related issues in the hospitality sector.
One significant recommendation is the creation of a specific offence for the abuse or mistreatment of bar staff, with penalties comparable to those for assaulting emergency workers. Inspired by existing laws in Scotland, the proposed legislation aims to provide legal protection for bar workers. Committee Chair James Lawless emphasised the need to discourage attacks on workers in the late-night hospitality industry, sending a clear message that such behaviour is unacceptable.
The Committee also suggests mandatory training for bar and off-licence staff on handling intoxicated customers and refusing service. Additionally, the proposal includes introducing a “dry licence” for venues like dance halls, cinemas, and cafes that do not serve alcohol but wish to operate all night. The Justice Committee highlights the importance of strengthening rules around alcohol delivery services to prevent underage individuals from accessing alcohol through online sales.
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