A number of pubs in Belfast open on a Sunday in protest over alcohol licensing laws.
About thirty people were in the Farmer's Rest pub in Belfast, one of 20 bars opening for two hours at a Sunday lunchtime in defiance of the law.
Publicans are challenging what they perceive to be discriminatory laws. Northern Ireland’s 590 sports and social clubs and hotels can legally serve alcohol on a Sunday.
Warren Feeney owner of the Farmer's Rest is irked that his rates are £10,000 a year and is aware of clubs that pay £750 and £1000 annually. The calculation shows that,
The difference between clubs and pubs in Belfast come to a staggering £2.5 million.
Many of the protesting pubs are picketed by church groups. The local Church of Ireland Reverend Rector James Stewart is protesting about pubs and clubs opening on a Sunday.
We’re totally against the availability of drink on the Lord’s day.
Less than half an hour after the Farmer's Rest opens, a Royal Ulster Constabulary sergeant arrives on the premises. Warren Feeney has committed an offence and must close the pub. Protest made, he is happy to comply with the law.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 25 November 1984. The reporter is Gary Honeyford.
