Leading Belfast business responds to removal of Ireland's Good Friday alcohol ban

The response comes after members of the Dail voted to reverse the ban on bars selling alcohol on Good Friday.

Drinksology works exclusively in the alcohol industry developing and supporting both local and international brands.

Managing Director Richard Ryan said this afternoon: “Irish government has recognised that the forced closure of pubs and licensed businesses not only negatively affected the economy but also sent an unwelcoming, archaic message to tourists and visitors. Our time working with some of Ireland’s most-loved distilleries and distributors has allowed us to experience the country as forward-thinking. Today’s removal of the ban is in keeping with this pluralist sentiment.

“However, today should serve as a reminder to the NI Assembly that the need for urgent reform over Easter Weekend has never been greater. Our hospitality industry continues to face huge losses each Easter weekend along with a VAT rate more than double that of the Republic, if our nearest competitor continues to gain advantage by modernising its laws, we could be left behind.”