A review of the Pubwatch scheme has concluded that it does not fall foul of data protection rules.
But practices do need to be tightened over the sharing of photographs and addresses of banned troublemakers.
Exclusions can be for various reasons but are usually for violence, disorder or drug misuse. They may be restricted to a particular area or, in a serious case, from all Pubwatch members’ premises in the island.
There had been fears that the introduction of General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) in the island in May last year has had unexpected consequences for Pubwatch in relation to the sharing of information.
But police insist it is not true to say the scheme cannot continue.
However, a review by the licensing trade and police concluded that practices needed to be tightened to comply with existing laws, including data protection legislation.
The Information Commissioner, who helped set up the Pubwatch scheme, was not involved in the review.
A police spokesman said: ’The Information Commissioner has always been of the view that provided members and the police adhere to procedures, the Pubwatch scheme can operate in compliance with data protection legislation.
’Members of the public may have had concerns that the Pubwatch scheme was in danger of failure. This is not the case and the scheme continues to operate.’
He said the Constabulary fully supports the licensing trade and will continue to work with them to make pubs and clubs safe places to visit.
A spokesman from the All Island Pubwatch Committee said: ’The licensing trade is very proud of the Pubwatch scheme.
’It provides a platform for a united stance with its members to ban people from our premises in the interest of protecting our staff, our customers and our livelihood.
’It is recognised that our guidance and procedures have to be followed strictly and must comply with any legal requirements. The Pubwatch scheme is in a fortunate position whereby it has a good relationship with the police. This works well towards creating a safe drinking environment and night time economy for the public.’
In a statement issued earlier this month, the Department of Home Affairs said: ’An issue has arisen in relation to circulation of information under the Pubwatch scheme, and a resolution to this is being formulated by the department and the constabulary in conjunction with Pubwatch.’