Off licences and supermarkets across Galway city have entered a voluntary agreement with the gardaí not to sell alcohol before 3pm tomorrow, St Patrick's Day.

It is hoped the move will help to prevent anti-social behaviour in the city.

Galway Bay FM reports that larger supermarkets and off licences in the city have agreed to refrain from selling alcohol until 3pm tomorrow - which leaves plenty of time for the parade to finish.

Gardaí say the businesses who have entered the arrangement are not under any legal obligation, but have signed up of their own accord.

Lord Mayor of Galway City, Councillor Frank Fahy, says there are other ways to enjoy the National holiday and that alcohol does not need to be the main focus:

The Galway parade is due to get underway at 11.30am and finish at around 1.00pm. You can find more information about the parade here.