Call time on last orders

THE attempt to curb excessive drinking and late-night street violence by reducing the hours of licensed premises is useless and will never work. In some instances, it exacerbates the problem.

The main contributor to alcohol-related disturbances (besides the alcohol) lies with the restrictive laws which force patrons of these establishments to empty out on to the streets, all at roughly the same time.

We should adopt a continental approach in which the landlord applies for a licence to open during a specific period, tailored to cater for its clientele and situation. This could be granted and policed by the relevant local authority, subject to its suitability in the locale.