As earlier closing times have seen a dramatic drop in public order incidents in Co Kerry, gardaí have begun to crack down on early-morning openings.
The tradition of early-morning openings to facilitate early fairs is well established. However, it is no longer necessary, according to Supt Pat Sullivan, who spearheaded the row-back in late-night pub openings. That crackdown of just half an hour has seen a 10 per cent reduction of public order offences in Tralee alone, where drink-fuelled violence stretched Garda resources in 2006.
Vintners with late-night premises opposed the move, saying it would have a serious effect on business. Judge James O'Connor rejected the vintners' arguments, saying the public good needed to be taken into account.
Last month at Killorglin District Court, the Garda superintendent in Cahirciveen objected to the annual general exemption application for early-morning openings of pubs on fair and market days in Killorglin. The exemption to open from 8.30am on those days was being sought by five pubs.
Supt Michael O'Donovan said aside from the three-day Puck Fair, Killorglin had only six fairs. He had sought adjustments to the applications from the pubs but this was rejected. Later at Listowel District Court, Supt John Riordan's objection to an application was allowed.