asked the Minister for Justice the action he proposes to take with regard to the widespread under-age drinking on licenced premises; if his attention has been directed to this problem; if he will request the Garda Commissioner to take a more serious view of it; and if he has any proposed measures for legislation in mind which will remedy the present position.
Written Answers . - Under-Age Drinking .
164.
: In reply to Parliamentary Questions from Deputy N. Andrews on 13 December 1977 (Official Report volume 302, columns 1179-1182) I said that it was my belief that the problem of drinking by young persons was a social one related to the drinking habits of the community generally and that legislative changes or police action could at best have a marginal effect in dealing with the problem. I indicated that the co-operation of the community was essential in bringing to the notice of the Garda information concerning those who might be deliberately selling intoxicating liquor to under-age persons.
I do not rule out the possibility of some change in the law in regard to the sale of drink to young persons but undesirable consequences could result from any but the most minor change and it is doubtful if the benefits would be very substantial.