A bit of cop on will not fix our problems with alcohol sales

Anyone familiar with how liquor licences are granted was not surprised at An Garda Síochána highlighting the limits of those licences. Picture: Michael O'Sullivan /OSM PHOTO

Pubs and restaurants are among the businesses worst hit during the pandemic, with most still closed or substantially restricted. Uncertainty about accommodating customers during the outdoor summer is an unwelcome worry for businesses doing their best to survive, but one that should have been anticipated.

Anyone familiar with how liquor licences are granted was not surprised at An Garda Síochána highlighting the limits of those licences. They are usually subject to conditions imposed at the request of An Garda Síochána and the local fire officer, and are granted on the basis of plans outlining areas covered by the licence as well as connecting areas not licensed. To avoid loopholes in enforcement, those plans are often the most scrutinised element of a court application. The evidence of an engineer or architect is required, often met with probing questions about where a particular door or corridor leads to. A key reason for this is the specific Garda powers in relation to licensed premises, such entering without warrant. The same powers do not apply to non-licensed areas.