‘Extending bar hours could add to violent crime’
THE Government should keep existing closing times for pubs and nightclubs amid concerns that longer hours could lead to increased “violent crime”, TDs and Senators will be told today.
A number of alcohol awareness groups will discuss the Government’s Sale of Alcohol Bill at the Oireachtas Justice Committee.
They will also call for the retention of the “extinguishment requirement”, which places a cap on the number of pub licences that can be issued. Under current law, a licence must be surrendered — or extinguished — before a new pub licence can be issued.
The focal point of the proposed legislation, unveiled by Justice Minister Helen McEntee last year, was that pub and nightclub hours will be extended.
While last orders in
PUBLIC toilets are expected to be in place prior to the start of the tourist season on the Great Blasket Island.
Despite the Co Kerry island having no running water, Wi-Fi and electricity, the island attracts thousands of applicants to be caretakers for six months from April to September annually.
The unique nature on the island which was once the home to the famous author Peig Sayers attracts on average 12,000 visitors yearly.
Moves to establish public toilets on the island come after last year’s caretakers Claire de Haas and Brock
Montgomery spoke out about how members of the public were defecating in the late author’s home, other ruins and around areas of the island.
Facilities
Last October, Junior Minister Patrick O’Donovan announced the Office of Public Works (OPW) is examining the possibility of public facilities being erected.
An OPW spokesperson yesterday said: “The provision of public conveniences on An Blascaod Mór (the Great Blasket Island) is an ongoing challenge.
“The OPW is actively pursuing a number of options for the provision of public toilets with a view to having a workable solution in operation as soon as practicable.”
However, a ferry operator to the island confirmed that, “it is now down to two options on providing public facilities which we are hopeful will be sorted out soon and before the next tourist season.”
The OPW added: “[We are continuing] to working on installing appropriate signage ahead of the 2023 visitor season, to include signs related to the protection of the seals and birdlife.”
They will also be coordinating with ferry operators to make sure that all tourists will receive information about the island.
This year’s caretakers are expected to be chosen by the end of February.