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With its full-size pool table, giant flat-screen TV, smoking area, and tables filled with glasses, it could be a bar scene like any other.
But instead, these are photos of the latest in a series of locals from Shebeen to be raided by Gardaí.
As part of Operation Navigation, the Gardaí conducted a search of the suspected Shebeen facility last night.
They began investigating the venue after reports began to appear on social media about how it was operating, despite the recently announced closure.
They robbed him at approximately 8 pm and located a “fully operational bar in a repurposed state.”
“The venue was equipped with a bar, stools, tables, chairs, a 70-inch flat-screen television and a full-size pool table,” Gardaí said.
“There were several beer taps on the bar, along with an under-bar cooler and kegs.
“There was also a smoking area, a storage room and a toilet on the premises.”
During the subsequent raid on the premises in Athy, Co Kildare, the gardaí seized five kegs of beer, a “significant” quantity of bottled spirits and beers, and various bar equipment, taps, gas and refrigerators.
A full investigation is underway on this matter and files will be prepared for the Director of the Public Prosecutor’s Office because the premises operated against the Alcoholic Beverage Licensing Regulations and the public was gathering there in contravention of the Health Law from 1947.
Gardai appealed to anyone with information about the illegal Shebeens operation to contact their local Garda station.
“The Covid-19 pandemic continues to be a public health crisis and An Garda Síochána continues to call on all citizens to comply with the Public Health Guidelines and Regulations to continue saving lives,” added gardaí.
Earlier this month, Gardaí searched three alleged Shebeen outlets in Laois, Meath and Westmeath to investigate alleged violations of liquor licensing legislation in support of public health measures.
During the searches, substantial amounts of alcohol were seized along with beer taps, coolers, kegs, liquor dispensers and other bar utensils.
At the time, Deputy Commissioner for Police and Safety John Twomey said: “The vast majority of licensed establishments comply with public health guidelines and regulations. Operating any premises without a license puts individuals and communities at risk.
“This is not acceptable and under Operation An Garda Navigation Síochána will continue to take appropriate measures. I would also like to thank members of the public who brought some of these issues to our attention. “
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