Councillors view Tuam as a pilot for drinking ban bylaws

MEMBERS of Athenry-Oranmore Municipal District have decided to observe Tuam as a pilot project before introducing a drinking bylaw in their area.

Leas Cathaoirleach Cllr Sean Broderick expressed concerns around the impact such regulations would have on young people looking for a quiet space to have a few drinks and on the local tourism industry.

He said people could do "a lot worse than have a few drinks" and feared that if such bylaws were introduced, it could drive young people into areas "where they won't be seen".

Athenry Cllr Martin McNamara believes that the bylaws aren't something to be overly afraid of, but felt an informed decision needs to be made on the issue.

“We already have legislation in place covering the consumption of alcohol in outdoor spaces, the bylaws could just be an extra layer before people would have to go through the court systems,” said Cllr McNamara.

Annaghdown Cllr James Charity told the meeting that he is not aware of any anti-social behaviour in his neighbourhood and wondered if the debate was a little premature.

He said: “We already have one of the most regulated systems in the western world for alcohol. So, I am a bit sceptical about the necessity for this.”

Cllr David Collins also resonated with the concerns raised adding that the bylaws may also have an impact on the local economy and businesses.

He suggested that the Municipal District should observe what happens in Tuam MD and review the situation in six months.

“We should look at it as a pilot and learn from it and see what the feedback is from our local councillors in that municipal district.”

Director of Services Liam Hanrahan said that the Community Safety Partnership will be considering if such bylaws are required in other areas.

He said that there are no plans for such proposals at the moment and that councillors should wait for a decisio from the Community Safety team.