Vol. 446 No. 3
172 Mr. E. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice the measures, if any, she is taking to combat and deal with underage drinking; the steps, if any, she intends to take to codify and update the legislation on liquor licensing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2150/94]
A wide range of controls designed to tackle the problem of under-age drinking is included in the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1988. The primary purpose of those statutory controls is to make it as difficult as possible for persons under 18 years of age to lawfully purchase alcohol, or to be in possession of it or to consume it other than in a private residence.
However, legislation alone cannot be expected to solve the problem of underage drinking. A broader approach, having regard to the social, cultural and economic factors involved, is required. It is for this reason that I promote and encourage the idea of community-based initiatives and I have encouraged the Garda Síochána to become involved in organising and assisting such initiatives. The gardaí in co-operation with community groups are playing a prominent role in organising local and schools programmes to deal with the abuse of alcohol and other substances by young people and they are willing to help with such local initiatives wherever these are contemplated. In this context I understand that there is active Garda participation in over 100 existing voluntary age card schemes which by and large are operating successfully.
I have no proposals at present to codify and update the Licensing Acts.
