Soccer: Calls for licensing laws to be relaxed for World Cup

The Government is coming under pressure to relax the country's licensing laws for the World Cup finals.

A member of Senate today called for the publication of a bill to permit pubs to open outside normal hours during the international soccer tournament so that fans can see all the matches with a pint in their hands.

Senator Therese Ridge, of the Fine Gael party, said Ireland's opening match against Cameroon was being screened live at 7.30am on June 1 and the whole nation would be watching.

She added: ``As with previous World Cups, people will want to get together in local pubs to see the matches as a group and enjoy the big screen atmosphere.

Ms Ridge insisted: ``Special occasions call for special arrangements. I am calling on the Government to make this exception for the army of Irish fans who will be watching the boys in green at home.''