The Mood Made Solemn By Law

We won't be heading off to the local for a friendly pint on a Friday evening.

In Ireland, it's against the law.

Maybe you're not of a religious bent or you're unfamiliar with Christianity, but today is Good Friday. It's a solemn day, a day in which we are to reflect on our evil ways with a mind to set things right in the future.

Since 1927, when the Irish Free State began to flex its puny muscles, pubs have been forced to shut their doors on Good Friday. Can't have people laughing or smiling or getting drunk when they should be contemplating Jesus Christ's suffering for our sakes. And since there's always a few weak ones in the bunch, the Government made it official and the bars are shuttered.

As usual, the Vintner's Federation is making some noise about the antiquated legislation.

Why can't people decide for themselves if they wish to carry on an old tradition, rather than have the decision made for them by the State?

Then there's the issue of the tourists who take their holidays around Easter time. The tourism industry promotes the camaderie and friendly atmosphere of the pub, but will visitors be happy to find that the pub they planned to visit on Friday is closed, along with every other liquor-serving establishment around?

Old habits die hard. In spite of the drop-off in Mass attendance and the furor generated by the clerical sex abuse scandal, politicians are reluctant to tackle a minor issue that may not be all that unpopular.

Good Friday closing is part of the fabric of Irish life. It's always been so, and where's the harm if we abstain from beer for one day out of the year? Besides, you can stock up at an off-license on Thursday evening and make your own party at home.