Nightclubs could lose licence unless they tackle sexual harassment and gender-based violence

Culture
26 Oct 22

Justice Minister Helen McEntee.

The reform of Ireland’s archaic licensing laws is expected to be enacted next year.

The reform of Ireland's licensing laws could see pubs and nightclubs lose their premises if they do not enact a zero tolerance approach to sexual harassment, gender-based violence and domestic violence in the venue.

The publication of the General Scheme of the Sale of Alcohol Bill, which is set to reform and streamline "out-of-date" licensing laws, is aimed at supporting and stimulating the night-time economy.

As part of the overhaul of the current laws, venues will be expected to comply with regulations when applying for a new licence or renewing a current one.

Speaking at the Royal Hibernian in Dublin yesterday, Minister for Justice Helen McEntee stated that an additional requirement has been added to those who are renewing their licence where staff, musicians and patrons must be kept safe.

“If a premises has shown not to support and protect either staff, patrons, performers or anybody on the premises from harassment, including sexual harassment, that’s now grounds for objection,” Helen McEntee said.

The Minister for Justice continued by stating that alcohol must be used with caution in these venues.

“Alcohol can’t be treated the same as any other commodity, it’s vitally important to the interests of health, public order and communities and the safety of those work on licensed premises, that they are prioritised.”

The Minister added: “(The Bill) will streamline the system while almost halving the number of licences. At the moment we have 36, it will be reduced to 20.

“The objective is that we have a licensing system that is not only modern, efficient and cost-effective but only has accountability at its core.”

Late bars and nightclubs will have to apply to the district courts to approve a permit, while they will also need CCTV on the premises.

Objections to new and renewed licences can be raised by fire services, authorities, gardai and local communities.

The Cabinet approved legislation this week that would allow pubs to open from 10.30am to 12.30am, seven days a week, while nightclubs can remain open until 6am.

Venues will be prohibited from serving alcohol after 5am, but dancing can continue for another hour.

Opening hours for late bars will remain at 2.30am, while a new later bar permit will be required.

Originally reported by Paul Hosford of The Irish Examiner.