BUNCRANA is one of nine towns nationwide which have been selected to become pilot projects for new licensing hours and the development of the night-time economy.
The others are Dublin City, Cork City, Limerick City, Galway City, Kilkenny, Drogheda, Sligo, and Longford Town.
Donegal County Council’s submission was successful to have the town included.
The new licensing laws expected to be enacted next year will see pubs open from 10.30am to 12.30am, seven days a week, while nightclubs would not have to close until 6am.
The government has also agreed to provide additional supports to help businesses and communities adjust to licensing law changes.
Fiachra O’Flaherty, of well-know Buncrana hostelry O’Flaherty’s, said he would like to learn more about how it will work before making any comment.
“There is other infrastructure around later opening such as taxies and I am keen to learn more. It will be interesting to hear what the new advisors will have to say on it,” Fiachra added.
Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin said this decision will contribute to a better night-time economy.
The nine new pilot cities and towns will now get advisers to help develop a sustainable night-time economy in their areas.
There is also a new capital fund of up to €2m in sound-proofing grants for night-time venues.
Opening hours for late bars will remain at 2.30am and a new late bar permit will be required.
Receive quality journalism wherever you are, on any device. Keep up to date from the comfort of your own home with a digital subscription.
Any time | Any place | Anywhere
SUBSCRIBE TO CURRENT EDITION TODAY
and get access to our archive editions dating back to 2007(CLICK ON THE TITLE BELOW TO SUBSCRIBE)