Should we introduce public drinking fines?

Tuam has become the first town in County Galway to establish a €75 fine for drinking alcohol in public.  Galway County Councillor Sean Cunniffe first brought the proposal in October 2024. Following public consultation, the Community Safety Partnership drafted the by-law and presented its report to councillors at a recent district meeting.  The fine, which can be enforced by a community warden or An Garda Síochána, starts at €75 and must be paid within 21 days. Failure to do so will see the penalty increase to €150. If it remains unpaid, a person could ultimately be liable for a fine of up to €1,900.