A historic law change means you'll get served a drink in a pub this March 30th.

Pubs across Donegal will be opening their doors this Good Friday after the government reversed the ‘booze ban’ for the first time in almost a century.

Legislation was passed today to amend the 1927 Intoxicating Liquor Act that banned the sale of alcohol on Good Friday, St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas Day.

While the March 17th ban was removed in 1960, and the Christmas Day ban beginning to loosen (three pubs and clubs in Donegal opened in 2017), the Good Friday ban was upheld with much debate over the years.

Minister of State, David Stanton, who introduced the bill said removing the alcohol ban would help Irish tourism.

“Tourism makes a much greater contribution to our economy and this is particularly true during holidays, such as the busy Easter period.

“In addition changing demographics and increasing diversity in our population have led to a reduction in traditional religious practice.

“Taking all these factors into consideration the Government considered that it was an opportune time to have an examination of the Good Friday restrictions.”

The bill will be signed by President Michael D Higgins next week in time for Good Friday 2018.

What do you think of this move? Is this a welcome sign of changing times? Or do you think the pubs should stay closed on religious days?