Those determined to drink out today will flock to the few venues allowed to serve alcohol, to toast loopholes in the law that allow them to sink a pint while the rest of the country stays dry, writes Mark O'Regan.

Business is likely to be brisk at the Oslo Bar in Dublin's Connolly Station, where a drink can be had for the price of a rail ticket -- as long as the journey is 40km or more. Presumably there'll be a lot of unused tickets to Louth.

In 1927, the Intoxicating Liquor Act enshrined in law that alcoholic drink could not be sold on Christmas Day, Good Friday and St Patrick's Day. The rule relating to St Patrick's Day was later repealed in 1960.

However, the law does contain exemptions -- such as the sale of alcohol to those travelling by sea, air or ferry.

Meanwhile, an arena by-law is good news for rugby fans. It means alcohol will be sold during the Leinster A v Munster A clash at the RDS.

Other places to get a drink include licensed theatres, race meetings or licensed hotels, as long as you are a resident and it is with a meal.

Irish Independent