Group Of TDs And Senators Recommend More Public Transport To Go With Later Pub And Nightclub Opening Hours
A group of TDs and Senators have recommended a levy on alcohol - which would pay for drink-related harms.
They were looking at laws which many say would modernise licensing in Ireland - and would allow nightclubs open until 6am.
The changes are being worked on by the Government to support the night-time economy.
It said there should be more resources in public transport - to work along with potentially later opening hours.
The Oireachtas Justice Committee has also recommended there should be laws to protect bar staff from abuse.
The proposal has been met with widespread public support – but Alcohol Action Ireland CEO Sheila Gilheany thinks more risks need to be considered before the Sale of Alcohol Bill is passed.
“The issue comes down to international evidence,” she said.
“We can see that any time you do this if you increase licensing hours, you increase the level of sale, and with that, the level of alcohol harm.
Ms Gilheany said the Government also needs to evaluate the risks for health services, emergency departments, and Gardaí before changing licensing laws.
“There needs to be a health impact assessment carried out on this Bill before it goes any further,” she said.
