Liquor law modernisation up for Stormont debate
The rules have not been changed since the 1990s.
63 different potential changed to Northern Ireland’s liquor licensing laws are to be mooted by MLAs today (Tuesday).
The rules have not been updated since the 1990s.
The rules, if approved, could mean that some regulations like restricted trading over the Easter weekend abandoned, while new relaxations like drinks in cinemas could be brought in.
They could also mean some tightening on rules around advertising alcohol in supermarkets.
Certain licensed premises might see their opening hours extended by one hour up to 104 times a year.
Smaller pubs would be able to extend the time for last orders up to 85 times a year.
It is Communities Minister, Deirdre Hargey, who is taking the Bill, which has been in the works since 2019, to the next stage in the legislative process.
Minister Hargey said: “The reform of licensing is a priority for this Executive under the New Decade, New Approach Deal and I am pleased to see modernisation is within reach.
“I want to thank Executive, Committee and Assembly colleagues for their work in getting this important Bill to this stage.
“The Bill contains a balanced package of reforms. While supporting the hospitality industry, it is my duty to also be mindful of the negative impact that the harmful consumption of alcohol can cause, to individuals and to whole communities.
“This Bill therefore also includes the relevant safeguards to ensure that people are protected from alcohol-related harms.
“I look forward to taking this Bill through its Consideration Stage today and next stages in the coming weeks and to deliver on this much anticipated reform.”
If the Bill passes the consideration stage it would only have two further stages before it receives Royal ascent and becomes law. That could happen over the summer, with the majority of the law changes then introduced in October.