Rules allowing outdoor bars may be made permanent

Simon Harris has received Cabinet approval for a six-month extension of the measure introduced during covid restrictions

Permission for outdoor drinking was initially brought in to enable pubs reopen amid covid-19 restrictions. File picture: Victoria Jones/PA 

Laws introduced during covid to allow for outdoor drinking are to be extended with a view to making them permanent.

Justice Minister Simon Harris received Cabinet approval to extend provisions which allow for the sale and consumption of alcohol in outdoor seating areas.