Calls for clarity on legality of serving alcohol at outdoor seating areas

The government's being urged to find a resolution after it emerged it's illegal for pubs and restaurants to serve alcohol in many outdoors seating areas.

Gardai say drinking alcohol in temporary outdoor locations isn't allowed if they don't have a licence.

The force says these businesses can only sell food or drinks on a takeaway basis or for consumption off the premises.

Restaurants Association Chief Executive Adrian Cummins says the Government needs to intervene.