A DUBLIN nightclub has been allowed to keep its late licence after management gave an undertaking it would not again allow what was referred to in court yesterday as a “knickers for liquor” promotion at the venue.
Midnight Promoters launched the controversial concept at Tramco nightclub in Rathmines on September 3rd last, where revellers were told they could swap their underwear for a free drink.
Gardaí in Rathmines lodged an objection to Tramco’s late licence last week and the case resumed at Dublin District Civil Court yesterday. Constance Cassidy SC, for Tramco, told Judge Mary Collins there had been extensive discussions between the venue’s management and the superintendent at Rathmines Garda station. Management had also agreed the premises would remain closed last weekend.
Gardaí would withdraw their objections to the nightclub’s late licence subject to undertakings being given, the court heard.
Tom Kavanagh, the receiver appointed to Tramco, agreed with Ms Cassidy the “knickers for liquor” promotion was regretted.
The management accepted the event was wholly “inappropriate, undesirable and demeaning”. They acknowledged gardaí in Rathmines then had no option but to object to Tramco late licences.
The court heard the nightclub’s management abhorred the conduct of this promotion, and Mr Kavanagh confirmed in evidence he had not been aware of it.
He confirmed the promoter had been removed. An undertaking was given that no similar events would be run there. Tramco confirmed it would supply details of all future promotions to gardaí.
Judge Collins granted Tramco the special exemptions order allowing the nightclub to operate a late licence.
Bank of Ireland appointed a receiver to Tramco in June 2010.