Been awhile since local bar owners had the call for a pulled pint, or a cafe to serve seated customers. Two Longford Town premises, owned by local families, one bar and a cafe, lacking a garden or back space, have been giving right to extend a space on literally street level. The parking spaces in front of their own spaces, have put out decking to allow to circumvent Covid restrictions. I a non-drinker, and I am not bothered by local family businesses making the best of a bad situation, people have suffered enough. Below are the official rules that have been adhered to by Torc Cafe and Tally-Ho Bar, hope all have a great time. The 7th of June, people can enjoy these new freedoms, July 5th the full reopening can happen.
1) What defines the outdoor premise where you can consume alcohol?
Usual pub licences allow publicans to serve alcohol and for it to be consumed on the premises, which can include areas outside the confines of the building such as gardens, yards, carparks, etc.
2) Extending the area of what can be used to dine and consume alcohol on
Local Authorities under Section 254 of the Planning Acts can licence the placing of furniture, such as tables and chairs, in public areas such as footpaths, pedestrianised streets, etc.
3) Putting the previous two points together
Local Authorities may also make bye-laws under Section 199 of the Local Government Act that permits the consumption of food and alcohol while using this street furniture.
4) Using specific sections that are already there
There are already many examples in cities of tables placed outside pubs/restaurants where alcohol is consumed in a roped-off area. This is done in accordance with the bye-laws in that town or city.
5) Gardai will still be vigilant
An Garda Síochána have responsibility for policing the liquor licensing laws and public order generally.
6) What defines the ‘authorities’ in terms of outdoor drinking?
It is generally the case that there is close cooperation between An Garda Síochána and Local Authorities and most licensed premises
7) Cooperation between the authorities
It is expected that the expanded provisions for outdoor dining/drinking will be operated in accordance with these existing arrangements.
thejourneysofsomepeople 