Laois festival licence granted

Forest Fest has been given the green light at a sitting of Portlaoise District Court. 

The festival in Emo was granted both a drinks and dance licence for the weekend of July 21 to 23 at Portlaoise District Court. 

Judge Andrew Cody asked about the bar and what controls were in place to prevent underage drinking. 

Solicitor Philip Meagher said there had been no issues at the event in 2022. He said the event catered for over 18s and admitted 12s and under who were accompanied by adults. 

Judge Cody asked about insurance and security. He was given details about insurance and he heard evidence in relation to the security. 

A director of the security company said his company covers events such as Longitude, Sea Sessions and Taste of Dublin.

“We are regulated by the Private Security Authority,” he said. He said a new temporary licence was introduced this year for events stewards would be in place. 

Mr Meagher asked about what could be expected at the campsites after the event.  

 “We are not going to rush people and that is in accordance with gardai,” he was told. 

Judge Andrew Cody said it was “an excellent event” and he wished the organisers the best of luck as he granted both the drinks and dance licence.