A significant development has emerged in Mr Sloan’s latest bill aimed at amending the laws governing the sale of intoxicating liquors in Ireland during weekends. Notably, the proposed legislation introduces a new and precise definition of a “bona fide traveller.”

According to the bill, for the purposes of this new Act and other relevant legislation pertaining to the sale of intoxicating liquors, an individual will be recognized as a bona fide traveller only if they satisfy specific conditions. These conditions include the requirement that the person’s lodgings from the preceding night must be situated no less than seven miles away from the location where they intend to obtain liquor. This distance will be measured by the nearest public thoroughfare. Furthermore, the individual must record their name and address in a designated book maintained for this purpose. This record must be open for inspection by magistrates and law enforcement personnel. Notably, a bona fide traveller will also be required to order and pay for a meal along with their request for intoxicating liquor.

The bill, sponsored by Mr Sloan, has garnered support from prominent figures within the political landscape, including Mr W. Redmond, Captain Donelan, Mr Gordon, Sir T. G. Esmonde, Mr O’Shaughnessy, Mr Glendinning, Mr Joyce, and Mr Smyth.

This proposed legislation further aims to restructure existing laws concerning Sunday closing in specific cities such as Dublin, Belfast, Cork, Limerick, and Waterford. Additionally, the bill seeks to establish a new regulation mandating the closure of all public houses by nine o’clock on Saturday nights.

This latest legislative initiative underscores the ongoing efforts to refine and modernize regulations governing the sale of alcohol while addressing various aspects of consumption and accessibility in Ireland.

Free Press (Wexford) – Saturday 07 April 1906