The 9 p.m. watershed law on children in bars arises out of the Intoxicating Liquor (Amendment) Act, 2003.
This piece of legislation introduced a series of measures aimed at combating alcohol abuse.
Specifically, Section 14 of the Act bans under 18s from the bar area of licensed premises after 9 p.m. This includes all licensed premises, including hotels, clubs and pubs.
The only exception for customers is where a private function is taking place at which a substantial meal is served.
There are other exceptions.
Teenagers who are working in a licensed premises are exempt, as are the children of licensees, or under 18s living in the building that the bar is located in.
Groups representing the hospitality industry have claimed the law has had a serious effect on business during the holiday season with holidaying parents staying away from bars because of the ban. The Irish Hotels Federation has proposed a compromise of a certification system for premises suitable for children and families, which would be exempt from the watershed rule.
The Vintners Federation of Ireland has proposed that the 9 p.m. time be moved to 10.30 p.m. during the summer months.