Limerick’s cup runneth over with court approval for match drinks

IT will certainly be a very good Friday for the punters in Limerick this evening.

For the first time ever in this country, all pubs in a town or city are allowed trade on Good Friday after a ruling by Judge Tom O’Donnell at Limerick District Court.

Up to 100 city pubs will pump into action from 6pm for the Munster game with Leinster at Thomond Park. And they have been warned to heed the final whistle. Gardaí say all premises must be cleared by 11.30pm.

The Icon nightclub in Denmark Street had planned to seek District Court approval to offer alcohol from 12.01 tomorrow morning but an application was withdrawn after Gardaí signalled there would be a strong objection.

Meanwhile, all 26,000 Thomond Park tickets have been sold and drink will be served there from 14 public and six corporate bars until an hour after the game, which starts at 8.05pm.

Limerick publicans chairman Jerry O’Dea said: “We are hoping everything goes smoothly and everybody enjoys themselves.”

But it won’t just be a big rugby night in the city. A huge contingent of Cork soccer fans are expected to avail of the Good Friday drink fest as Limerick FC play host to Cork City at Jackman Park at 4.30pm.

The Franciscan monks of the Renewal will be outside Thomond Park to encourage people to do the Stations of the Cross in nearby churches.

Br Shawn O’Connor said: “It is not a day for festive events and unnecessary leisure activities.”