Áine Ryan
CLARE Island Community Centre Ltd (CICC) yesterday appealed a decision by a Circuit Court judge that it must apply to Mayo County Council for planning permission if it wishes to obtain a seven-day publican’s license.
A High Court hearing into the matter continues today (Tuesday) in Castlebar Court House in front of Mr Justice Michael Hanna. CICC is represented by leading licensing laws barrister, Constance Cassidy.
Circuit Judge Raymond Groake adjourned the application at a sitting of Clifden Circuit Civil Court last July. He heard objections from Chris O’Grady, proprietor of The Bayview Hotel, and Jim and Ann Cox. Mr Cox plans to develop a ten-bedroom lodge with a bar and activities centre on the island.
At the time Mr O’Grady did not have a full license for his premises, but he subsequently acquired one. Mr Cox was also later granted a license for his project, which is due to start soon.