The Government is considering updating alcohol-licensing laws to allow later opening for cultural venues, such as theatres, galleries and exhibition spaces.

Extended closing times for bars and nightclubs, as well as standardised Sunday opening – in line with weekday hours – are all to be considered by Cabinet.

Minister Helen McEntee pledged in the Justice Plan 2021 to reform the licensing laws, and Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton will seek Government approval to draft the General Scheme of the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2021.

A report on the night-time economy will also be brought to Cabinet, with the aim of bringing more venues into late-night use.

Cultural institutions

Cultural institutions may also have opening hours extended, as well as later midweek hours allowed for cafés and clubs to host live events.

Night-time economy committees will be established in six cities and towns.

The taskforce report also examines how to bring the electronic dance music sector into the cultural mainstream.

Planning permissions could also be altered to allow empty buildings to be used for events.