Several Ministers have raised the issue.
Off-licences could have their opening hours slashed as the government tries to clamp down on house parties and social gatherings.
It was discussed at a Cabinet meeting on Monday, as ministers discussed moving to Level 3 restrictions.
According to the Irish Independent, three ministers raised the prospect of reducing opening hours of off-licences.
Social Protection Minister Heather Humphreys was the first to raise the issue and was supported by Justice Minister Helen McEntee and Minister of State for Roads Hildegarde Naughton.
Consultant in Emergency Medicine, Dr. Chris Luke, says the government should look at only allowing off-licences to open during morning hours.
''My tuppence worth would be that they curtail the licensing or perhaps only have off licence sales between 9 and 11 in the morning for example, he said.
''And try and nudge people towards regulated socialising where you book your table the local pub or restaurant''.
However, the National Off Licence Association is warning that changing their hours could impact on small family owned business.
It’s instead urging the Government to focus on limiting the sale of cheap alcohol - which it feels would reduce irresponsible drinking.
Level 3 restrictions have been introduced nationwide from today, you can learn more here.
