Drop in assaults as gardaí go zero-tolerance on closing times

THERE has been a 60% drop in the number of assaults taking place in Drogheda as a result of gardaí “rigidly” enforcing the liquor licensing laws and raiding pubs and nightclubs.

Since the June bank holiday weekend, the gardaí have been going into pubs, nightclubs and members’ clubs within minutes of official closing time and ensuring that all patrons are out of the premises on time.

Gardaí say there have been ongoing problems related to people leaving a number of pubs around the same time as the nightclubs were closing, leading to queues for taxis and fast food.