Menu
01/05/2012
New Measures Aim To Tackle 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.
(GK)
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.
(GK)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
18 June 2001
PROVINCE ON TARGET FOR 10,000 NEW JOBS
COMPANIES in Northern Ireland are seizing the opportunities of the Information Age, according to a recent Progress Report published by the Information Age Initiative (IAI).
PROVINCE ON TARGET FOR 10,000 NEW JOBS
COMPANIES in Northern Ireland are seizing the opportunities of the Information Age, according to a recent Progress Report published by the Information Age Initiative (IAI).
06 April 2023
Consumers More Positive About Spending Power
UK consumers are feeling more positive moving into spring, according to the latest edition of the PwC Consumer Sentiment survey. Conducted immediately after the Spring Budget, the survey found consumers are feeling more optimistic about their spending power for the year ahead.
Consumers More Positive About Spending Power
UK consumers are feeling more positive moving into spring, according to the latest edition of the PwC Consumer Sentiment survey. Conducted immediately after the Spring Budget, the survey found consumers are feeling more optimistic about their spending power for the year ahead.
21 June 2004
Campaign to end ageism is launched in North West
Employers in the North West are being urged to attend the North West launch of the Age Positive campaign.
Campaign to end ageism is launched in North West
Employers in the North West are being urged to attend the North West launch of the Age Positive campaign.
13 January 2022
Education Minister Urged To Introduce New School Starting Age Legislation
The Education Minister has been urged to introduce new legislation on school starting age, following a consultation that showed 90% of respondents supported the move. A consultation was held on proposal to allow parents to defer their children starting school.
Education Minister Urged To Introduce New School Starting Age Legislation
The Education Minister has been urged to introduce new legislation on school starting age, following a consultation that showed 90% of respondents supported the move. A consultation was held on proposal to allow parents to defer their children starting school.
10 June 2009
Police Tackle Underage Drinking In Derry
Up to 60 police officers are taking part in an operation to tackle underage drinking in Londonderry. The police enforcement campaign - called Operation Snapper - will run throughout the city throughout the summer. According to Inspector John Burrows, over 300 items of alcohol were seized from underage drinkers in Derry last weekend.
Police Tackle Underage Drinking In Derry
Up to 60 police officers are taking part in an operation to tackle underage drinking in Londonderry. The police enforcement campaign - called Operation Snapper - will run throughout the city throughout the summer. According to Inspector John Burrows, over 300 items of alcohol were seized from underage drinkers in Derry last weekend.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherThis Evening and Tonight:It will be cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, soon followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
