Changes in licensing laws which will see pubs have longer opening hours and nightclubs open until 6am has had a mixed reaction.
Some publicans believe that the rising costs mean many pubs won't be able to avail of the changes while others believe the change may be just what the industry needs.
From next year pubs will have later opening hours and nightclubs can stay open until 6am. Late licences will also be granted annually meaning venues don't have to reapply in the courts every month.
The Vinteners Federation of Ireland says there is huge concern within the trade about elements of the Bill, and they've criticized the lack of engagement with the trade by Government on the matter.
Many publicans say they are already re-examining their business model and looking at reduced trading because of energy costs, opening hours and profitability.
The Justice Minister says they've tried to balance the night time economy with public health issues when changing licencing laws.
Speaking to RedFM News, Cork publican Paul Montgomery says he doesn't believe the change is a reflection on our drink culture but rather about a different entertainment offering:
"It's not about to drink culture. It's more about having an entertainment offering. People like to socialize and we have to admit that people socialize in different ways. I think it would be important for the economy of a city that can adapt to a new culture that's developing. Let's embrace it and run it in an efficient way."
