Former justice minister voices concern over new late-night licensing laws

Charlie Flanagan, who resisted the idea when he held the office now occupied by his party colleague Helen McEntee, said he wants the bill's impacts better understood. Picture: Leah Farrell/RollingNews.ie

A former Fine Gael Justice Minister has added his voice to those concerned about proposed late-night licensing laws.

The Irish Examiner reported earlier this week that the Road Safety Authority (RSA) had expressed concerns that a plan to allow nightclubs to open until 6am and pubs until 2.30am would lead to more road deaths, and Charlie Flanagan said he is concerned that the Government will try to "ram through" the legislation before the summer.