The gardaí have been placed in an “impossible position” by having to “use their discretion” on the issue of outdoor drinking, according to Independent Galway West TD, Catherine Connolly.
While outdoor and public drinking are banned under local government bylaws, the requirements of an ‘outdoor summer’, have meant a relaxation of such laws. However, Dep Connolly said this has resulted in cases of uncontrolled drinking in residential areas, and a “lack of power by the gardaí to do anything about it”.
'Comprehensive plan needed'
“There was no preparation and or no anticipation of the challenges outdoor drinking would pose,” said Dep Connolly. “The bye-laws were a significant step in giving the required powers to the gardaí and also balancing the rights of all. The gardaí are now being asked to ignore those bye-laws, or to use their discretion, which places them in an impossible position.”
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Dep Connolly said there are “a number of solutions” to the problems which have arisen. She is calling for pubs and restaurants to be open, albeit with restricted capacity to comply with Covid regulations; any further intrusion on public spaces must comply with the Barcelona Declaration on accessibility for all citizens, and must respect the right of residents to “the peaceful enjoyment of their homes”; and the Government message for an outdoor summer must change to a “more inclusive and comprehensive plan”.
“I would like to see much more focus on Government support for outdoor recreational activities,” she said, “including financial support for clubs and organisations in Galway.”
