Liquor Licensing Laws

Tuesday, 16 April 2013

Questions (887)

Pearse Doherty

Question:

887. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if there is any current provision similar to section 19 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000, which was in operation for one year, to allow those who currently hold a restricted publican licence to apply for a full seven day licence; if he intends to amend existing legislation to facilitate those wishing to upgrade their licences; his views on whether introducing such a provision would provide a boost to already established and successful businesses operating under restricted licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16332/13]

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Written answers

Minister for Justice and Equality

The position is that section 19 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2000 made provision for the upgrading of restricted licences under certain conditions, including a condition that applications to the Revenue Commissioners for such upgrading be made within one year of the entry into force of the Act. I understand that a small number of restricted licences remain in existence and I intend to provide an opportunity to upgrade these remaining licences in the forthcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.