NI Public Asked For Opinion On Alcohol Sales

Alcohol sales are under the spotlight in Northern Ireland as the public are being asked to give their opinion.

People who respond to the six-week survey will be asked whether they think pubs and other licensed venues should be allowed to keep serving until 2am, and whether drinking up time should be extended from 30 minutes to one hour.

They will also be asked whether supermarkets should be forced to sell alcohol in separate areas, or restrict those areas by age.

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland, who launched the consultation today, said alcohol sellers made a "significant contribution" to tourism in Northern Ireland, but "irresponsible alcohol consumption" must be discouraged.

Mr McCausland said: "Undertaking a further review of licensing legislation at this time provides an opportunity for my department to introduce extra measures to help address some of the concerns surrounding alcohol misuse in Northern Ireland. It also enables me to respond to concerns surrounding irresponsible alcohol consumption, including the availability of alcohol and changes in drinking patterns. While tackling irresponsible drinking, I also feel it is important to recognise the contribution made to the local economy by the licensed trade, which has changed in recent years and makes a significant contribution to our tourism offering, as well as providing much needed employment."

Colin Neill of industry body Pubs of Ulster welcomed the public consultation and urged "publicans, business owners and customers" to respond to the survey before the November 12 closing date.

To respond, visit www.dsdni.gov.uk/.

(NE)