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Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 17 May 1994

Vol. 442 No. 8

Ceisteanna—Questions. Written Answers. - National Age Card Scheme.

Andrew Boylan

Question:

25 Mr. Boylan asked the Minister for Justice when identity cards as promised under the Liquor Act, 1988, will be brought into operation; and if she will make a statement on the matter.

Section 40 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1988, gives the Minister for Justice power to make regulations providing for a national age card scheme. I have no plans at present to make such regulations for the principal reason that I consider the way forward lies in the development of voluntary local age card schemes. The indications are that such schemes backed by a strong community involvement can make a greater contribution to tackling underage drinking than a national scheme with all that that entails.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that eighty local schemes are in operation throughout the country and that plans are under way to establish new schemes in other centres. I am also informed that, overall, the schemes are considered to be reasonably successful and beneficial and that they have assisted in reducing the levels of alcohol use by persons under the age of 18 years.

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