A comprehensive reference book on Ireland’s licensing code was described by Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan as “an erudite tome” and “an indispensable text for practitioners”

Launched on 17 July, The Annual Licensing Court: 21st Century Essential Guide by Constance Cassidy and Tim Bracken is a comprehensive citation of Ireland’s licensing laws from 1833 to 2011.

It clarifies and explains the country’s endlessly complex legal code in this area.

The Minister said he was pleased that the Courts Service, which administers the licensing laws, is moving towards an updated online system for processing applications.

'Impenetrable maze'

Speaking at the launch in the Jameson distillery in Dublin’s Smithfield, the minister said “Without such reference books as these, our licensing code would be an almost impenetrable maze of statute, regulations, court rules and case law.

“While our current licensing laws may date back to 1833, the first licensing statute for Ireland was enacted during the reign of Charles I in 1634. It is from this original document that many of the standard conventions of our licensing laws date – such as the annual renewal of licenses, oversight of such licenses by the courts and “good character” provisions for innkeepers and publicans,” the Minister said.