McDowell plans push against super pubs

Justice Minister Michael McDowell is set to begin a crackdown on so-called "super pubs" under new legislation to be published next month.

Reports this morning said the legislation, which is designed to streamline Ireland’s licensing laws, would cap the size of licensed premises in an effort to halt the rise of super pubs.

The reports said the proposed legislation would also include provisions to allow for the issuing of new alcohol licenses to small pubs and cafes.

The new law is expected to be opposed by the licensed trade.