Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 7 July 2004
294 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the communications he has had with the Department of Health and Children to date regarding the problem of under age drinking throughout both rural and urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20744/04]
View answer296 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to work with the Department of Health and Children and the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism to develop a joint initiative in relation to an advertising campaign or a co-ordinator of legislation in relation to the issue of under age drinking, particularly in view of the recent announcement by GAA task force; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20752/04]
View answerI propose to take Questions Nos. 294 and 296 together.
I had consultations with the Minister for Health and Children during the preparation of proposals to reform the licensing laws, particularly those relating to under-age consumption of alcohol. Such consultations took place, for example, during the preparation and drafting of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 which contains measures aimed at combating the problem of underage drinking.
The provisions in the 2003 Act, which give effect to recommendations of the Commission on Liquor Licensing and the strategic task force on alcohol, include a strengthening of the provisions prohibiting the sale or delivery of alcohol to persons under the age of 18, restrictions on the presence of persons under the age of 18 in bars of licensed premises and a new requirement that persons aged 18 to 20 must carry an age document in order to be in the bar of licensed premises after 9 p.m.
In the course of drafting a Bill to codify the licensing Acts, I shall continue to consult with other Ministers in line with Government policy in this area and take into account the views of interested bodies, including the GAA.
