Mayor Of Kildare Says This Is Wide Variation In Public Drinking Legislation.

Monday, 21 June 2021 12:38

Gardai confirmed that licensed premises are not legally allowed to serve alcoholic drinks in outdoor dining areas set up due to Covid restrictions.

The Mayor of Kildare says there is wide variation in public drinking regulations around the country.

Over the weekend, Gardai confirmed that licensed premises are not legally allowed to serve alcoholic drinks in outdoor dining areas set up due to Covid restrictions.

Justice Minister Heather Humphreys says members of the force will use discretion when dealing with with pubs and restaurants serving alcohol in the temporary setups.

Mayor, Cllr. Mark Stafford, is also a solicitor.

He says, in most instances, the problem arises where the definition of a licence premises does not include outside space.

Garda John Joe O'Connell is stationed in Kildare, and is the Divisions's GRA rep.

He says his colleagues are being asked to make on the spot decisions taking in to accounty numerous pieces of legislation.

Mayor Stafford and Garda O'Connell joined Clem Ryan on Monday's edition of the progamme.

While Fianna Fáil Senator for South Kildare, Fiona O’Loughlin has written to the acting Minister for Justice Heather Humphreys TD calling on her to provide clarity to the hospitality sector.

She says “We need to fix this issue urgently. I have been in regular contact with publicans, restauranteurs and others in the hospitality sector across Kildare and they have been so patient with government. They have remained closed and done everything that was asked of them. The last thing they need is more stress or uncertainty, and I want to see this issue solved”

“Many pubs and hospitality businesses have invested heavily in outdoor seating and have put a huge amount of work and effort into re-opening their businesses. The government must do everything to allow them to operate in a safe and responsible way”