McCausland tackles underage drinking
Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has introduced new legislation to combat underage drinking and a new penalty points system for breaking the law. The new legislation and proof of age scheme comes into effect on 1 May.
Minister McCausland said: “Underage drinking is a major problem in our society. The introduction of this legislation goes some way to tackle this problem. It will make it more difficult for a young person under 18 years of age to enter licensed premises and purchase or consume alcohol. Ultimately it’s about taking care of the health and wellbeing of our young people.”
The new proof of age scheme will specify for the first time, acceptable proof-of-age documentation for licensed premises and registered clubs. Establishments will be required to display notices describing offences relating to the sale of alcohol to young people under the age of 18 and the purchase of alcohol by, or for, under 18s. The notice will also refer to the documents approved for the purposes of proving age.
The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 will enable a Court, following conviction, to endorse penalty points on a liquor license or a clubs certification of registration for breaches of the law including such offences as underage sales. On accumulation of 10 penalty points within any three year period a licence or certificate will be suspended for a minimum of one week and a maximum of three months.
Email to a friend
Print this page
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Londonderry
Sunday 19 May 2013
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 17 C
Wind Speed: 10 mph
Wind direction: East
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 8 C to 14 C
Wind Speed: 18 mph
Wind direction: North west
