Tough new powers to tackle underage drinking
02 Feb 2010
Tough new powers to tackle under age drinking in public places have come into effect Criminal Justice Minister Paul Goggins said today.
Confiscation of alcohol, tougher penalties for persistent drinking in a public place and police returning teenagers under 16 to their home for suspected drinking in a public place are all part of the new laws that have been commenced.
The new powers have been introduced under the Policing and Crime Act 2009 which extends to Northern Ireland.
Paul Goggins said: “Government has a duty to do all it can to try and eradicate the scourge of under-age drinking.
“This new legislation gives the police extra powers.
“Until now police have only been able to confiscate alcohol from young people in public where the cans or bottles were already open or where they believed that there was an intention to consume - the new powers will now allow the police to confiscate unopened containers so even carrying a bag of cans or bottles could be subject to the new laws.
“Young people under 18 can now be prosecuted for persistently possessing drink in a public place and if caught three or more times within a 12 month period could face a maximum penalty of a £500 fine.
“Police will also have the power to bring young people under the age of 16 back home if they suspect they have been drinking.”
Welcoming the change in law, Health Minister Michael McGimpsey said: "Alcohol misuse can lead to a lifetime of health and other problems. This is an important step which will help young people understand the dangers of drinking."
Welcoming the new powers Assistant Chief Constable Criminal Justice Will Kerr said:
“The sale of alcohol to minors has far reaching effects on young persons and the wider community. We welcome the new powers to confiscate alcohol.
“We have already been working closely with the Department of Health and the Northern Ireland office to tackle the problem of under age drinking and last year we launched the You, Your Child and Alcohol advertising Campaign.
“At the moment we are also running a number of pilot test purchase of alcohol exercises to address the illegal sale of alcohol to minors. Test purchasing of alcohol will have a significant impact on restricting the supply of alcohol to young persons and in reducing underage drinking.”
