Call to extend Donegal pub opening hours if Ireland makes the World Cup

The Minister for Justice Jim O’Callaghan has been urged to consider temporarily extending pub licensing hours if the Republic of Ireland qualifies for the World Cup, with local representatives backing the move.

During recent parliamentary questions, Independent Dublin Bay North TD Barry Heneghan had argued that any extension should be short-term and carefully managed, allowing fans to watch late-night matches together safely. Many of Ireland’s potential fixtures would kick off after midnight Irish time, he said.

South Inishowen independent community representative Adrian McMyler echoed the call, highlighting the unique role pubs play in Donegal communities.

“In Donegal, the pub isn’t just a pub,” Mr McMyler said. “It’s the sitting room, the debating chamber, and the place where every goal is analysed like we’re all on RTÉ.”

Mr McMyler added that it would be unreasonable for supporters to be forced out of pubs during crucial moments of World Cup matches.

“No Donegal man should be handed a plastic cup at 10:59, and no match should end with last orders being called during injury time. Also, no one should be sent home into the Atlantic wind after a 90th-minute winner.”

The Buncrana man said pubs provided a safe and social environment for fans, and extending opening hours would allow celebrations to be better managed, while also supporting local businesses.

“Half the county becomes football experts for 90 minutes. Every goal is celebrated as we scored it ourselves. Years later, people still talk about where they were when big goals were scored. If Ireland reaches the World Cup, let Donegal celebrate together, responsibly, and without being rushed out the door,” he said.

The Vintners Federation of Ireland has supported the proposal, noting that major sporting events provide a boost to trade and help strengthen communities.

The Boys in Green are two wins away from qualification, with matches against Czechia and either North Macedonia or Denmark standing between the Boys in Green and the finals in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Should Ireland qualify, they will be placed in Group A along with hosts Mexico, South Korea, and South Africa. Of the 104 games, only 32 will kick off earlier than 9pm Irish time.

The opener against South Korea would kick off at 3am on the night of June 11th into June 12th. Their second group game against South Africa would then kick off at the much earlier time of 5pm on June 18th, before another late-night game at 2am on the night of June 24th against Mexico.

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Almost half of the 104 games will take place after midnight Irish time, with four games kicking off as late (or early, depending on your view) as 5am.