Cafés to get low-cost licences to sell alcohol

THE Government yesterday stepped up its battle against binge drinking and street violence with the introduction of café-style bars.

As part of an overhaul of the liquor licensing laws, Mr McDowell is to introduce a café bar licence for establishments less than 130 square metres in size.

The licence, which was a key recommendation of the Commission on Liquor Licensing, will not be available for premises which sell “takeaway” food, such as fast-food outlets. The new-style premises must offer hot meals and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises during opening hours. The sale of alcohol for consumption off the premises would not be permitted and nor would extended opening hours.