It’s hoped legislation which would radically overhaul licencing laws for pubs and nightclubs will be published in the coming months.
Draft proposals approved by Cabinet would see nightclubs allowed to stay open until 6 am.
The Oireachtas Justice Committee has heard conflicting views on the laws by interest groups during its scrutiny of the legislation.
Arts and Culture Minister Catherine Martin says she expects plenty of honest debate around the proposals:
"I expect thorough, frank, honest engagement.
"Getting the nighttime sectors supported and match other cities and, of course not just our cities, but rural communities too.
"It's about supporting them and getting them to thrive."
Under proposals approved by Cabinet Ministers last year, venues seeking such a licence will still have to apply to the courts - with objections allowed from fire authorities, Local Councils, the HSE, An Garda Síochána and local communities.
To get a nightclub licence venues will need CCTV and staff to be registered with the Private Security Authority.
Opening hours for late bars will remain at 2.30 am with a new licence needed
The Department of Justice reckons many venues will continue to use that option, with only larger clubs seeking the 6 am option.
Pubs will also get slightly longer opening hours during the week, being allowed to trade between 10.30 am and 12.30 am seven days a week - up from the current Monday to Friday closing hours of 11.30 pm.
