The Minister of State for Commerce, Mr Pat Rabbitte, yesterday advocated a "flexitime" approach to pub opening hours, but said it should take account of bar workers' rights and the right of people in city suburbs to a night's sleep.
Mr Rabbitte was speaking at the announcement of the Black and White Pub of the Year awards, which this year has gone to Palmers' Golden Ball, Kilternan, Co Dublin. The Department of Justice has announced that winter time closing will come into effect next Monday. Weekday closing time will be 11 p.m.