Dodds voices concern about drinking in public by-laws

Stronger and more effective powers to deal with drinking in public and anti-social behaviour are being considered by the Department for Social Development.

Outlining the need for more effective by-laws, the Minister for Social Development, Nigel Dodds said ordinary people were fed up with the anti-social behaviour associated with drinking in public areas where this is prohibited by by-laws. He added: "A number of district councils have expressed an understandable sense of dissatisfaction as their attempts to deal with this growing problem seem to be frustrated by an inability to take measures which are more immediate and more effectual.

"There is a need to ensure the existing by-laws are operating in a way that provides district councils and the police with the most effective powers to deal with this problem. My officials will be discussing the problems with the existing by-laws and suggestions for the future with district council officials, the police and other interested parties. Following these discussions, I would hope to be in a position to consult publicly on proposals for the way ahead later this year."

District councils have the power to make by-laws under section 90 of the Local Government Act (NI) 1972. While the Department of the Environment is responsible for the Act, the Department for Social Development is responsible for approving what are commonly known as drinking in public by-laws.

These by-laws make it an offence to drink alcohol in designated places and give police the power to take the names and addresses of offenders before passing the details to district councils which are responsible for prosecution proceedings.

(MB)