Jim Higgins
Ceist:88 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps, if any, he is currently taking to deal with the problem of under age drinking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16949/97]
Vol. 481 No. 7
88 Mr. Higgins (Mayo) asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps, if any, he is currently taking to deal with the problem of under age drinking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16949/97]
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. I understand that the Garda Síochána are undertaking a campaign to ensure the effective enforcement of the provisions of the 1988 Act on under age drinking.
I am determined that all reasonable steps will be taken to ensure the existing controls on under age drinking are even more effective. I have therefore asked officials of my Department to urgently examine the question of the introduction of a national, voluntary, age card scheme under the regulation making provisions in section 40 of the 1988 Act. This initiative on my part is not to be interpreted as taking away from the good work being done under local age card schemes or from the dedication of the people involved in them. However, there may be potential for making a greater impact on the under age drinking problem by introducing a uniform scheme of nationwide application.