Clare VFI Chair Says Publicans Are Unfairly Punished By Good Friday Drink Ban

The Chair of the Vintners Federation in Clare says his industry has been unfairly punished by the traditional Good Friday ban on alcohol sales.

Ennis publican Darragh McAllister has been speaking on what looks likely to be the last year that the rule is in place.

The ban on selling alcohol on Good Friday was introduced in the early years of the State, but looks set to be no more as of next year.

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The Seanad has debated legislation this week, which would lead to its demise as the Government isn’t expected to oppose the law.

It signals a win for Vintners Federation of Ireland, which has long since campaigned for the ban to be lifted.

Chair of Clare VFI, Darragh Mc Allister of Lucas’ Pub in Ennis, feels publicans shouldn’t be punished for religious reasons.

The Communications Officer with the Killaloe Diocese agrees that people should have a choice about whether they drink on Good Friday.

But Fr Brendan Quinlivan says those of the Catholic faith should stand up for what they believe in:

But out and about on the streets of Clare, these people told Clare FM that they just don’t see what the fuss is all about: