Tuam area Councillors have unanimously passed new by-laws forbidding the consumption of alcohol in public places in the Tuam Municipal District from next month
The final approval at this week's meeting followed a period of public consultation and a meeting presentation by the council's community safety officer Marie Nicholson and Community Safety Administrator Jo Mullins
The main aspect of the new legislation is that there is a €75 on the spot fine which can be imposed by a Garda or a Community Warden.
Fine Gael Councillor Ollie Turner suggested that special signs be produced for display in off - licences and pubs that trade in alcoholic cans which warn customers that it is now illegal to consume such alcohol outdoors.
Independent Ireland Councillor Shaun Cunniffe, who originally raised the matter says the by-laws will go a long way towards stamping out anti-social behaviour
Some councillors expressed concern about the safety of Community Wardens if they were challenged while trying to impose a fine.
Director of Services, Michael Owens replied that Wardens would be advised to use their discretion and may also call for the assistance of the Gardai to deal with some cases
Councillor Cunniffe says it's great the Gardaí now have these by-laws in their armoury
The meeting was informed the new legislation would not impact on festivals or special occasions as a derogation can be sought to allow for events such as Headford’s Headfest, Tuam’s Saw Doctors’ Concert, and Kilconly Music Festival
Councillor Cunniffe says it is in no way to prevent the enjoyment of having a drink
