There was good news for publicans and off licences today as the Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald confirmed that she will not stand in the way of a private members Bill to have the alcohol ban lifted on Good Friday.
The news comes after Senator Billy Lawless submitted a Bill before the Dail that will see the ban on alcohol sales being lifted for all involved within the drinks industry and not just being restricted to pubs and off licences.
Under the new Bill which is thought to be moved swiftly through the Dail all premises who hold a licence to sell or distribute alcohol will be able to open for business on Good Friday.
It is believed that Mr Lawless’s bill will be heavily supported in the Dail as it will mean publicans and retailers will be able to open for business on Good Friday 2018 rather than being forced to close due to the prolonged waiting period that will occur when the Government officially amends the current provisions on the sale of alcohol Bill which is expected to go through the Dail later this year.
The new laws which will be more than likely introduced before years end will officially see the 90 year ban being lifted after decades for lobbying by those involved in the drinks industry.