In the run-up to the Easter Weekend, one of the biggest gripes some people have is the alcohol ban on Good Friday. 

 

Frequently, some express bemusement that pubs and restaurants should remain closed for the day due to the ban, citing it as old-fashioned and of another era in Ireland. While others will say the one day does us no harm and is needed, given our large drinking culture.  

 

Whatever your view, it's all set to change this year, after the Dáil voted the alcohol ban down on the opening day of the Easter holiday weekend, according to The Mirror

 

And this will apply to all premises wanting to sell alcohol on the Friday; the lift on the ban of alcohol sales on Good Friday will apply to all premises and not be restricted to pubs, according to reports.

 

The Bill was originally brought before the Oireachtas through the Seanad by the US-based Senator, Billy Lawless, a politician hailing from Galway who now lives in Chicago. 

 

Junior Justice Minister David Stanton officially proposed to end the ban and it was voted through (no formal vote was needed for it to pass successfully). 

 

“The restrictions are I believe unsuited to modern society,” Stanton said.

 

"The large number of tourists visiting Ireland at Easter were confused by a law that made Ireland appear out of touch with the rest of our European neighbours. This change is a win for our customers, our tourists, our suppliers and the wider hospitality sector,” added Donall O’Keeffe, Chief Executive of the LVA (Licensed Vintners Association).

 

While the move was largely welcomed some TDs, including Independent TD, Maureen O’Sullivan, opposed the move, citing the dangers that people could easily overlook the fact that alcohol is a drug.

 

"We could do with a few more Good Fridays," she said. 

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