Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 2 February 2005
309 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he plans to introduce a new liquor licensing regime; if so, whether he foresees special licences for small cafe-like pubs of under 500 square feet; off-licence sales; and for night clubs to avoid the need for taking up court time each week applying for exemptions. [2927/05]
View answerThe position is that the Government legislation programme, which was published on 25 January last, makes provision for the publication of an Intoxicating Liquor Bill later this year. It will repeal the Licensing Acts 1833 to 2004 together with related licensing provisions in other statutes — about 100 statutes in total — and replace them with updated provisions geared to modern conditions. Subject to the approval of the Government for its drafting, I intend to publish shortly details of the proposals which will be included in the Bill.
