RAI Says Outdoor Hospitality Is Permitted Under Govt. Guidelines.

Monday, 21 June 2021 09:17

Gardai say outdoor drinking in temporary seating areas requires a licence.

The Restaurants Association of Ireland says outdoor hospitality IS allowed under the government guidelines.

Gardai say drinking alcohol in temporary outdoor seating areas isn't allowed if restaurants and pubs don't have a licence.

Gardaí say outdoor drinking in temporary seating areas illegal https://t.co/AYHWqCn1Zi
— The Irish Times (@IrishTimes) June 21, 2021

The force says these businesses can only sell food or drinks on a takeaway basis or for consumption off the premises.

Restaurants Association Chief Executive Adrian Cummins says the Government needs to intervene to make things clear for the industry:

The Government has been urged to bring in new legislation immediately to give clarity to restaurants and pubs serving alcohol in outdoor seating areas. https://t.co/bSqGR52yTD
— Irish Examiner (@irishexaminer) June 21, 2021

Adrian Cummins says it's causing confusion across the sector:

The Justice Minister says Gardaí will use their discretion to deal with pubs and restaurants serving alcohol in temporary seating areas.

It's after Gardaí confirmed over the weekend that licensed premises are not legally allowed to do so.

Kacey O'Riordan reports

Gardai in Galway claim they raised concerns about pubs serving alcohol outside as early as May 7th.

Chief Superintendent Tom Curley says he's not trying to be a killjoy:

More from National News

Kildare Council Says "Not A Single Complaint" Lodged About Abbey Street Closure In Naas

Cllr Moore claimed that the Abbey Street closure has effectively turned parts of Naas - including Harbour View and Basin Street - into a 300-metre cul-de-sac, adding that if the single vehicle entrance from Main Street were ever blocked, residents, businesses, and emergency services could be cut off.
Ireland’s Most "Haunted" House, Loftus Hall, Sold For €3 Million To Meath Investor

The property on Wexford's Hook Peninsula was last sold in 2021 and hasn't been open to the public since 2020.
Vapers Warn Government People Will Return To Smoking Cigarettes If Fruity Flavoured Vapes Are Banned

Audio

Over 70% of ex-smokers say fruit flavours play a key role in helping them stay off cigarettes.
Katriona O’Sullivan To Lead Ireland’s First National Centre For Inclusive Higher Education At Maynooth

It will focus on helping people from all backgrounds access and succeed in college.
Inside A Kildare Turkey Farm: How Bird Flu Is Testing Farmers’ Nerves Before Christmas

Feighcullen farmer Billy Gray joined Hannah Kelly on this morning’s Kildare Today to discuss the impact the bird flu outbreak has had on his flock.
29 People Arrested As Gardaí Crackdown On Organised Retail Crime

They've been charged and are due in court today.
Renewed Calls From Senator Fiona O'Loughlin For Passage Of Catfish Bill That Would Make Catfishing A Standalone Criminal Offence

Her appeal follows revelations that prolific Northern Irish sex offender Alexander McCartney continued to offend and catfish while on bail for similar crimes
Doctors "Gasped" At Extent Of Injuries As Stepmother Admits Killing 4-Year-Old Stepson

The woman, who can't be named in order to protect the identity of a child witness, changed her plea to guilty on what was the fourth day of her trial.