It’s claimed concerns over pubs serving alcohol outdoors were raised with the Justice Minister in May.
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris told Heather Humphreys that discretion will be used in individual cases where there are questions surrounding licencing laws.
Over the weekend, Gardaí have flagged that drinking alcohol in these outdoor seating areas is not permitted, unless specifically provided for in a liquor licence obtained in court or where by-laws permit the drinking of alcohol in public.
Gardaí in Galway claim they raised concerns about pubs serving alcohol outside as early as May 7th.
Chief Superintendent from Western Region Divisional HQ Tom Curley says he's not trying to be a killjoy.
Justice Minister Heather Humphreys has spoken to both the Garda Commissioner and Attorney General about the issue this morning.
She says she's been assured Gardaí will use their discretion.
But the GRA says there is absolute confusion and want clearer guidelines so members cannot be held accountable for "impossible decisions".
The Restaurants Association says the issue could have been avoided if indoor dining was permitted earlier, and Padraig Cribben, from the Vintners Federation told Shannonside Northern Sound that he raised this specific concern with Minister Humphreys ten days ago.
