asked the Minister for Justice if any surveys on the extent of teenage drinking in Ireland have been carried out; and if he will outline his plans to deal with this growing problem.
350.
Written Answers . - Teenage Drinking .
349.
asked the Minister for Justice the plans he has to modify and update the laws relating to liquor licensing in this country.
: With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 349 and 350 together.
I am satisfied, from the reports and representations I have received, that the extent of drinking by young persons is a matter for concern. My Department are pressing ahead with proposals for legislation to amend the liquor licensing code which will help to counteract abuses related to the consumption of alcohol. In the preparation of this legislation special regard is being paid to the problem of drinking by young persons but, as I have stated on previous occasions, this problem is a social one related to the drinking habits of the community generally and legislative changes can have only a marginal effect on it.