Plan to give local authorities power to control pub hours

LOCAL authorities will be given the power to control pub opening hours under proposals being drawn up by Justice Minister Michael McDowell.

The minister says communities should be able to have a say in determining how late drink is served depending on the needs of the area.

The new powers, which the minister is seeking to bring before the Cabinet, could be used to curb public order offences, or allow publicans meet greater demand in popular tourist spots. A spokesman confirmed the minister was examining such a move, but said no firm decision had been made yet.