The Northern Ireland Office (NIO) has decided against 24-hour pub opening hours. Instead, in a shake-up of the North's licensing laws, it is proposing bars can remain open an extra hour until 2am each day, excluding Sunday.
NIO minister David Hanson has resisted any temptation to introduce the sort of round-the-clock licensing laws being considered for England and Wales. In a consultation document published yesterday, he proposed Northern Ireland pubs could open until 2am from Monday to Saturday, with midnight closing on Sundays.
Extensions beyond 2am could be granted for particular occasions such as New Year's Eve, special celebrations and sporting events.
Social development minister Mr Hanson said an overhaul of the liquor licensing laws was necessary so that Northern Ireland could keep pace with tourism and hospitality developments and "modern expectations".
The extra drinking time is due to be introduced by mid-2007. Mr Hanson is also proposing that by 2009 district councils rather than the courts would decide on licences for pubs, clubs and hotels.
The PSNI would also have additional powers, including the authority to temporarily close pubs in breach of the licensing laws or to restrict opening hours. A penalty points system against offending pubs is also proposed.
There are also measures to tackle underage drinking, including the promotion of a voluntary proof of age scheme. The legislation would also provide greater flexibility and discretion to pubs and clubs in relation to access for people under 18.
