Pub owners who are forced to close for breaching Covid-19 rules could be jailed for a year, if they re-open early.
Legislation's being published later, empowering Gardaí to shut down establishments for 30 days, if they don't follow the public health guidelines.
A pub could also be fined 2,500 euro for not displaying a sign outside, informing the public of its closure.
The government's also consulting with the arts sector about allowing events to go ahead, but only if alcohol isn't served.
The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors General Secretary, Antoinette Cunningham, says officers aren't clear on how to enforce the rules: