Bill empowers courts to close pubs

THE Public Order Bill which will give courts the power to close down pubs and take-aways associated with street violence has been passed by the Oireachtas – 12 months after it was reintroduced to the Dáil.

The bill will become law when President Mary McAleese signs it. This takes place no sooner than five days and no later than seven days after she receives it. It is expected that by the end of this week or early next week, the bill will be enacted.

Under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Bill 2002: