New Bill Looks To Curb Alcohol Abuse

The Bill is based on recommendations set out in the Report of the Government Alcohol Advisory Group which was presented to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on at the end of March.

Publishing the Bill, Minister Ahern said, "[It] contains some important reforms of the licensing laws and public order legislation to address the adverse consequences of alcohol abuse in our society. The measures proposed are a balanced response to problems caused by excessive alcohol consumption and binge drinking."

The Minister said that the strategy underpinning the draft legislation is one which tackles the increased visibility and availability of alcohol through off-licences while tightening the conditions under which premises with on-licences qualify for special exemption orders permitting them to remain open beyond normal licensing hours.

The Bill strengthens enforcement provisions, particularly in relation to underage drinking, and increases penalties for certain public order and licensing offences. The Bill also contains a number of measures to curtail drinking in public places, especially by those under 18, including allowing the Gardaí to seize alcohol.

The Gardaí will also have powers to seize alcohol from anyone (regardless of their age) where the consumption of the alcohol in a public place is causing, or is likely to cause, annoyance or nuisance or a breach of the peace.

The Minister said the new powers will add significantly to the effectiveness of the Garda response to drinking in public places.

Minister Ahern said: "The new powers are designed to prevent problems arising. They allow the Gardaí to take early and effective action to nip problems in the bud." He added that "The new powers will be especially welcomed by traders and householders in areas which have been suffering from the scourge of drinking in public, with all the related problems that can bring with it."

The Minster said that he will be seeking the assistance and co-operation of both Houses of the Oireachtas to achieve the early enactment of the Intoxicating Liquor Bill. "I know that there is broad support for steps to tackle the problem of alcohol abuse and I look forward to enactment of the Bill before the summer recess." He added that arrangements are being made for the introduction of fixed penalty charges for the public order offences of drunkenness and disorderly conduct in a public place.

The Minster said: "The introduction of these charges represents a significant development in the enforcement of our public order laws. Fixed charges are efficient and effective and they have attractions for all concerned; the offender avoids a criminal conviction, the Gardaí will not be tied up with attendance at court and the courts will, I hope, see a reduction in this type of case. I am planning to bring the new arrangements into operation to coincide with the enactment of the new Bill."