LIRR bans booze on weekend late night trains

LIRR is shutting riders off early.

The railroad today announced it is banning booze on weekend late night trains, following a spate of attacks on workers.

Riders will no longer be able to toss back alcoholic drinks on trains from midnight to 5 am, Long Island Railroad president Helena Williams said at the MTA's committee meeting.

"It's a pilot program to see, does this actually reduce incidents?" said Williams.

MTA police say that 95 percent of attacks on employees involve alcohol.

The new ban goes into effect on May 14.

In March, two LIRR employees were assaulted while working.

Williams said the ban will hopefully reduce future incidents.

"To protect our train personnel is essential," said Mitch Pally, the chair of the LIRR Committee.

Bar cars at stations will not be closed down, but riders won't be able to to bring their drinks on board during the prohibited hours.