Justice minister Helen McEntee has opened a public consultation on the modernisation of Ireland’s licensing laws through the proposed Sale of Alcohol Bill.

The consultation will look at how best to update the existing laws governing the sale and regulation of alcohol in Ireland, given that the hospitality industry has been the hardest hit by the pandemic.

Ireland’s antiquated licensing laws must be reformed, and the minister has committed to enacting alcohol-licensing laws that reflect changing expectations and lifestyles.

She wants to hear opinions on nightclub and late-bar opening hours, trading hours and regulation of online and delivery sales. 

“We have also seen many innovations during the pandemic, such as the extension of outdoor dining, and I would like to hear the public views on how we can build on these changes,” she said.

Update

The proposed bill will update and streamline existing alcohol licensing laws into a single act, making it accessible and user-friendly for the licensed trade, courts, gardaí and the public.

Legislation governing the sale, supply and consumption of intoxicating alcohol in licensed premises is set out in the Licensing Acts 1833 to 2018 and in the Registration of Clubs Acts 1904 to 2008.

The objective of the proposed Sale of Alcohol Bill is to repeal the Licensing Acts and the Registration of Clubs Acts and to replace them with updated and streamlined provisions. 

It is also the intention to repeal the Public Dance Hall Act 1935.

This consultation will be open from today (25 November) to close of business on 21 January 21, 2022.

Interested individuals, groups and organisations may complete the online survey.