Publicans Have Called For The Drinking Ban On Good Friday To Be Lifted

There are two days of the year where all of the pubs in the country (are supposed to) close – Good Friday and Christmas Day.

This rule was made what seems like ions ago, and in 2017, it is still enforced in every watering hole in the country. It was obviously put in place way back when almost everyone was a practising Catholic, and before Ireland was in any way diverse or before people started to question their faith. 

And now, pub owners and pub users alike think this should be changed. 

At the launch of their latest campaign, calling for licensing laws to be changed, The Licensed Vintners Association and the Vintners Federation of Ireland stated that the rule itself is “archaic and discriminatory”, and are keen to have the law amended sooner rather than later.  

CEO of the Association, Donall O’Keeffe, said.

“There is no case for the licensed trade to be treated differently to other retail businesses. Easter is a huge tourism weekend right across the country.
“Forcing pubs and all licensed hospitality businesses to close sends a very negative signal to tourists and visitors who are left baffled and disappointed by the measure.”

There has been no word as to whether this law will be changed or not – but we think it’s safe to say that many publicans around the country will have a strong argument against it. 

What do you think? Do let us know in the comments. 

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