Cabinet to consider giving Gardaí new powers to close a pub on the spot

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Gardaí could soon be able to shut a pub immediately if it breaches Covid rules.

The cabinet will today consider giving Gardaí the power to close a pub on the spot, if they're found to be in breach of Covid-19 rules.

RTE reports first of the powers would allow gardaí to issue a compliance notice to a pub owner, which will ask them to address any issues there.

If legislation is found to have been breaches gardaí would have the option to use an Immediate Closure Order that would shut the pub for a day. If this is refused, the bar's owners would face a fine of up to €2,500 or a six-month prison sentence.

Gardaí will also be able to apply to the District Court for an Emergency Closure Order, which could close a pub for up to 30 days.

Under current guidelines, pubs must serve a substantial meal costing not less than €9 to remain open.

Ministers will meet this afternoon where it's expected they will rubber stamp a decision by NPHET to further delay the reopening of pubs.