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A Fine Gael senator previously said that closing pubs on Good Friday was 'part of our national identity' – but what do you think? Alamy Stock Photo
The Daily Poll
How do you feel about pubs being allowed to open on Good Friday?
It’s now been eight years since the ban on Good Friday pub openings was lifted.
YOU MAY REMEMBER a time when going to the pub on Good Friday was a no-go. Of course, that was until the ban on Good Friday alcohol sales was overturned back in 2018.
While the change was met with mixed reactions at the time, many people may no longer remember the era of annual pub closures.
However, others feel that the ban was a tradition worth keeping. Paulie Doyle of The Ditch described lifting the prohibition as “a mistake” – adding that “drinking on Good Friday brought a vague sense of defiance and illicit collusion”.
Similarly, when the ban was lifted, Fine Gael senator Joe O’Reilly warned that allowing pubs to open would be “detrimental to our national identity”.
That said, it remains up to individual publicans whether or not they open on Good Friday. Last week, a pub owner in Co Meath told LMFM that closing for the day isn’t about religion, but simply a chance to give staff a day off.
So, we want to hear your thoughts.
Tell us: How do you feel about pubs being allowed to open on Good Friday?
Poll Results:
I didn't go to the pub, but it's nice to have the option (5171)
I don't think it's a good idea (2961)
I went to the pub, so I support the change (1826)
I'm indifferent/not sure about it (1343)
have your say