Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 9 July 2024
531. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice for an update regarding the introduction of the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2024; if this will be published as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29637/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra532. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Justice if she will reform the special exemption orders systems for late-night venues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [29638/24]
Amharc ar fhreagra561. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Justice the reason for the prolonged delays in the implementation of the cultural amenity licence legislation. [29939/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 531, 532 and 561 together.
It is my intention to separate the Sale of Alcohol Bill into two Bills.
Firstly, I intend to introduce the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2024. This is a shorter Bill to introduce a number of key reforms contained in the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2022 to modernise our licensing system, including:
• The standardisation of opening hours for pubs and off-licences.
• The introduction of an annual late bar permit and an annual nightclub permit.
• The inclusion of new grounds of objection in line with the Zero Tolerance Third National Strategy to Tackle Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence.
• Strengthening of the powers of An Garda Síochána to ensure that public safety and order are maintained.
• To provide that licensing applications, which are currently heard in the Circuit Court, will move to the District Court.
• The inclusion of the provision for outdoor seating.
The Department continues to engage with colleagues in the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media regarding the provisions for cultural amenity licences.
The terms of this Bill are currently being finalised with the Office of the Attorney General.
Work will continue to progress on the other provisions in the General Scheme of the Sale of Alcohol Bill 2022 to modernise our liquor licensing laws thereafter.
