The Dáil has this afternoon passed legislation which will allow public houses serve alcohol on Good Friday.
Introducing the amendment to the Intoxicating liquor Act bill, Minister of State David Stanton explained why the government were supporting the amendment.
"Tourism makes a much greater contribution to our economy and this is particularly true during holidays, such as the busy Easter period.
"In addition changing demographics and increasing diversity in our population have led to a reduction in traditional religious practise.
"Taking all these factors into consideration the Government considered that it was an opportune time to have an examination of the Good Friday restrictions" he said.
Reacting this afternoon publican representative groups, the Licensed Vintners Association (Dublin publicans) and the Vintners Federation of Ireland (Outside Dublin),described the Good Friday ban as archaic and discriminatory, have welcomed today’s news.
Speaking following the vote, Padraig Cribben, Chief Executive of the VFI, thanked Independent Senator Billy Lawless who proposed the Bill.
“Along with the LVA we have been fighting to overturn this archaic law for the past decade,” said Mr Cribben.
“Today’s decision would not have been possible without the tireless work of Senator Billy Lawless and former Senator Imelda Henry,” he added.
Mr Cribben also paid tribute to Michael McDowell, Victor Boyhan and Gerard Craughwell who co-sponsored the Bill in the Seanad. Senator Gerry Horkan also provided invaluable assistance with the Bill.
Donall O’Keeffe, Chief Executive of the LVA, said the decision to allow the sale of alcohol on Good Friday was long overdue.
“Removing the ban is simple common sense,” said Mr O’Keeffe. “The large number of tourists visiting Ireland at Easter were confused by a law that made Ireland appear out of touch with the with the rest of our European neighbours.
“The extra day’s trade at such a busy time of year will be a welcome boost. This change is a win for our customers, our tourists, our suppliers and the wider hospitality sector,” he added.
“The fact the Bill received all-party support illustrates there is little opposition to Good Friday trading, as has always been the case for retailers in other sectors.”
Among those TDs who opposed the removal of the ban independent TD Maureen O'Sullivan suggested the bill would not help in the fight to reduce the harm caused by alcohol.
"So I wonder how many tourists have been put off coming to Ireland because there is a day when public houses are not open?
"With this bill what message are we sending out?
"I actually think we could do with a few Good Friday's throughout the year."
More reaction as we get it ...
