A Belfast pub stopped from delivering Guinness during the lockdown is set to resume the service after taking legal action against the police.
Hatfield House had been pulling pints on customers' doorsteps until it was forced to suspend the operation last month.
Staff then arrived at their homes in a specially fitted van, pouring drinks into plastic glasses while wearing protective gloves.
Beers were left on doorsteps to ensure a no-contact service.
But police intervened amid claims that the service breached licensing legislation.
The owners of the Ormeau Road-based bar launched a High Court challenge, with a hearing listed today for interim relief.
The dispute centred on whether it violated licensing laws to pull pints by the side of the road when they were pre-ordered and paid for.
However, a judge was told a potential resolution has been reached following discussions between the publican and senior police.
If agreed steps are taken, including terms and conditions, the draught beer delivery service is expected to recommence imminently.
A final conclusion to the case is expected to be confirmed next week.
Mr Justice McAlinden urged lawyers to formalise a position "to ensure there's an element of legal certainty which can be relied upon by others who may wish to engage in a similar provision of service in the community while the present restrictions on pub opening remain in place".
In a statement issued on Friday afternoon, the police said they are “now satisfied” that a number of issues they were concerned about have been addressed.
Chief Superintendent Jonathan Roberts said: “The public will be aware that in this unprecedented time of national health emergency, the priority for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has been protecting and supporting our communities, keeping people safe and highlighting the importance of adhering to the Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) Regulations NI 2020.
“A number of weeks ago we became aware of a Belfast Licensee offering a draught beer home delivery service. At that time, we identified a number of issues with this proposal and advised the Licensee that it was not compliant with Article 3 of the Licensing (Northern Ireland) Order 1996. The Licensee discontinued the service at that time.
“It is important to highlight that this is a very complex matter as any such service needs to satisfy a number of legislative requirements in addition to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 including, in particular, the Licensing (Northern Ireland) Order 1996; the Sale of Goods Act 1979, Health and Safety and Road Traffic legislation.
“During this period, the PSNI has engaged in ongoing discussions with the Licensee and their legal representatives in relation to this facility.
“PSNI are now satisfied that with the development and implementation of changes in the service and appropriate undertakings in respect of insurance and health and safety legislation and bespoke terms and conditions of sale, this service could comply with the applicable legislation.
“While PSNI and our licencing officers across Northern Ireland are happy to work with any licensees considering introducing a similar service, we would advise them to ensure that any such proposed service meets all current legislative requirements and they have the correct licence in place.”
