THE MINISTER FOR Justice has confirmed she is examining the possibility of lifting the ban on alcohol sales on Good Friday.
Her comments follow a meeting she held last week with groups representing publicans – the Licensed Vintners Association and the Vintners Federation of Ireland – which they described as “very positive”.
Speaking to Newstalk today, Frances Fitzgerald said:
What I said is yes I would examine it and, you know, have a look at it, but clearly it’s a cultural, social approach that we’ve taken in this country . I have to say when the public are asked about it they‘ve deeply divided views on it.
The rugby Championship Cup quarter finals will be held over Easter weekend this year and publicans and alcohol retailers are keen to be able to sell over the weekend. The groups representing pub owners last week also highlighted the potential impact of the ban in relation to 1916 centenary celebrations which will take place next year.
Despite the minister’s statement that she is examining the issue, her department said last week that it is unlikely that any decision will be taken in advance of ongoing work on the upcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.
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