From Northern Ireland: NI alcohol sales laws to be changed says Nelson McCausland

Northern Ireland's laws on the sale of alcohol are to be changed, Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has said.

But he rejected calls to bring Northern Ireland into line with England and Wales where laws are less stringent.

The changes mean publicans will be able to apply for an extension until 02:00 BST, 12 times every year.

Restrictions on advertising alcohol in supermarkets and off-licences will be introduced.

Other changes include:

• Modest changes to the Easter opening hours for public houses, with normal opening hours applying on the Thursday and Saturday before Easter;
• The alignment of the alcohol and entertainment licensing systems to make enforcement of the law on late opening easier for the police;
• Formal approval for codes of practice on the responsible sale of alcohol;
• Minor changes to the law affecting private members' clubs.

Mr McCausland said a consultation attracted more than 2,500 responses from the drinks industry, health bodies and the general public.

"While I am keen to ensure that licensing laws assist in supporting the hospitality industry and tourism, it must be in a way that does not add to the difficulties we already have with alcohol as a society," he said.

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Source: bbc news, 21/07/14