A local councillor has claimed Gardaí caused a ‘health and safety’ issue after they raided an east Donegal pub at the weekend.
Cllr Paul Canning said the matter arose after guards called to one pub after closing time. He said there were around 60 people in the premises and were told by Gardaí to leave, resulting in them having to wait around for taxis on the street. Speaking at today’s meeting of the Donegal Local Community Safety Partnership (DLCSP), he said pubs were also raided in a number of areas, including Newtowncunningham, Killea, Carrigans and St Johnston.
“I’m looking for clarity on this issue as we don’t have as many taxis in rural areas as in urban areas,” Cllr Canning said.
“Pubs officially close at 12:30 am at weekends. However, Gardaí arrived at this particular premises at 1:10am when there were about 60 people present. All these customers were removed to the street and the doors closed, and then they all had to wait for taxis.”
Cllr Canning added that some customers sat in their cars to keep warm while waiting on a lift home. However, he stated, they could’ve been arrested for being in charge of a vehicle while drunk.
“The wrong message was sent out by Gardaí that night,” he said.
“A health and safety issue was created and I want clarity as to how long customers can wait for a taxi, while not being served alcohol, before being put out of a pub”.
DLCSP Chairman, Cllr Gerry McMonagle, said the meeting was not the forum to discuss ‘individual issues.’
However, Cllr Canning said Gardaí ‘must go both ways’ if they want more community co-operation.
Gardaí caused ‘health and safety issue’ after raiding Donegal pub – claim was last modified: February 26th, 2026 by Staff Writer
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