A local Fianna Fáil Senator has welcomed the passing of a Bill that will regulate the sale and consumption of alcohol in outdoor seating areas.
The short bill aims to give clarity to businesses, gardaí and local authorities about serving drinks at temporary outdoor seating.
It follows Gardaí being asked to show "discretion" when it came to policing pubs and restaurants serving customers outdoors.
A Bill removing this uncertainty has passed all stages in the Seanad today and is expected to be signed into law by the President shortly.
After a "bolt from the blue" for hospitality this week with the delay to the return of indoor dining, Senator Gallagher says this will be good news for the businesses "fortunate enough to have outdoor space":