The Chair of Clare VFI says that the Sale of Alcohol bill’s proposed changes to pub closing times have no relevance to this county.
A new report, which was published by Professor Emeritus Tom Babor of the University of Conneticut, states that the bill will lead to “epidemics of binge drinking that have major implications for public health and social well-being”.
The General Scheme of Sale of Alcohol Bill was launched by Justice Minister Helen McEntee last year with the aim of regulating the sale of alcohol as well as supporting “the development of night time culture and the night time economy”.
Bringing an end to 200 year-old legislation, the bill outlines sweeping changes to the operation of pubs and nightclubs across the country
Among these changes, pubs will be allowed to keep their doors open until half past midnight 7 nights a week with nightclubs permitted to serve alcohol until 5am and remain open until 6am.
Widespread concerns surround the proposed legislation, with many fearing rises in public disorder and binge drinking.
Professor Emeritus Tom Babor’s report, which is based on studies of cities with similar legislation in the UK, the EU and Australia, states that “epidemics of public intoxication” are likely to ensue.
Clare Vintners Federation Ireland Chair, Charlie O’Meara, says that “society has changed” and that the legislation has no relevance to County Clare.
Meanwhile, fears abound that the changes in closing times could lead to a harmful shift in drinking culture with an increase in alcoholism and alcohol related disases expected.
Gerry Murphy, Treatment Team Leader at Bushy Park Addiction Treatment Centre, worries that A&E’s could be overwhelmed by drink-related cases.
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