A local councillor says there's been a noticeable increase in anti-social behaviour.
Tougher laws on alcohol consumption in public are being proposed in Westmeath.
New draft bye-laws have been agreed by Athlone-Moate councillors - to introduce a €75 fine for drinking in public.
Fianna Fáil councillor Aengus O'Rourke - who proposed the motion - says a noticeable increase in anti-social behaviour is behind the idea.
He expects the new measures to improve order and image in our local towns - and will go out for public consultation in December.
But Councillor O'Rourke says there will be exceptions to the rules for special events: