Licensing hours over the festive period

On Christmas Eve, the permitted hours are 11.30am to 11pm, or midnight if a late extension is in place and 30 minutes drinking-up time is allowed.

Off-licences in pubs can open from 11.30am to 11pm, and off-licences in shops from 8am to 11pm.

On Christmas Day the hours are 12.30pm to 10pm and again, 30 minutes drinking-up time is allowed. There will be no late licences and no off-sales.

The New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day hours are 11.30am to 11pm, or to 1am with a late extension. Off-licences in pubs can open from 11.30am to 11pm, and off licences in shops from 8am to 11pm.

Constable Paul Larkin, the District Licensing Officer for Foyle, Limavady, Magherafelt and Strabane, said it was important for local people to be aware of the hours so they could plan their nights out.

“We have been in touch with local licensees and we have told them we will be mounting extra licensing inspections over the festive period,” he said.

“These will aim to give reassurance to staff and customers and to help prevent disorder.

“I hope that local people will enjoy the Christmas period sensibly.

“If they intend to go out for the night, they should also plan to get home safely.”