Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 23 Oct 2001

Vol. 542 No. 5

Written Answers. - Underage Drinking.

Cecilia Keaveney

Question:

404 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of public houses and other outlets for alcohol in County Donegal which have been warned, prosecuted or closed for serving alcohol to minors; and if he will make a statement on the success of the current campaign. [25040/01]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table contains details of prosecutions, warnings and closures of premises in the Garda division of Donegal, since the coming into operation of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2000 on 6 July, 2000:

Premises	Prosecutions	Warnings	Closures
Public Houses	4	13	0
Hotels	1	0	0

I am further informed that licensed premises are strictly monitored and regulations enforced in the Donegal division and, as a result of the campaign, licensees are becoming more aware of their responsibilities in relation to under age drinking.

I believe that the current age card scheme coupled with the substantial changes provided for in the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1988, as amended by the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2000, is proving an effective deterrent against under age drinking. However, I am keeping the scheme under continual review and, in that context, I have recently established a review group within my Department which, in consultation with the Garda, will examine the operation of the scheme with a view to identifying any defects coming to light and, if necessary, make appropriate recommendations. I expect that this group will report to me by the end of the year.