'Ireland's night-time economy falling behind other countries,' Cork campaigners say

Campaigners for the night life industry in Cork are concerned the country is being left behind other European nations in terms of having a thriving night-life sector.

They believe the proposed bill that would allow for later nightclub opening hours in Cork and Ireland has been not been prioritised by the new Government.

The Intoxicating Liquor Bill, which would enable nightclubs in the country to stay open until 6am, has not been included on the Government’s spring legislative agenda consisting of 21 priority bills.

Speaking to The Echo, Cork- based Natalie McCormack, founder of the Electronic Music Council and Underground Ovation, described her concerns regarding the lack of progress for the nightclub sector in this country.

“I think Ireland is falling behind, when you look at other countries evolving their night-time economy. Not just nightclubs, but being vibrant at night and making cities more attractive for people like residents and tourists.

“The offering is really limited compared to more global cities. It is not really putting us on the map for a place to enjoy the evening.

“I just feel frustrated and disappointed because things could be better.”

The bill on extending nightclub opening hours has been in the works since October, 2022. But this was split into two bills by the former justice minister Helen McEntee, with the Intoxicating Liquor Bill emerging in 2024.

It had been anticipated that the changes would enable nightclubs to open until 6am and pubs to open until 12.30am. But complications with updating the laws significantly delayed the process.

Ms McCormack added that although the bill not being totally scrapped is a positive, she thinks further signs of progress for improving the night-time economy in Cork are needed.

“This really does impact a lot of things. It is impacting our culture, it impacts the economy and people who work in the night-life industry that are having to change their roles. They are not getting enough out there to support them. It just really affects business as well.

“It is equally disappointing for those who simply want to enjoy a better, safer and more diverse night-life experience.”

A spokesperson from the Department of Justice, speaking to The Echo regarding the proposed bill to extend Irish nightclub opening hours said: “The legislation in question will be advanced in keeping with the programme for government commitment to updating our licensing laws, with the specific provisions to be considered as part of the Government’s legislative programme in due course.”