Irish Republic tackles underage drinking
A raft of measures aimed at curbing underage drinking is to be introduced in the Irish Republic.
The new measures will include special school courses for all second-level students on the dangers of alcohol abuse, plus advisory programmes for their parents. An inter-departmental task force has been established to examine and propose other safeguards.
This mirrors plans in the UK for a National Alcohol Strategy which could include some of the ideas being trialed in Ireland.
Organisations including drinks watchdog The Portman Group have backed a programme of alcohol education for young people.
The Irish proposals follow concern over the liberalisation of the off-licence sector in the Republic of Ireland, which will see an increase in the number of off-licensed premises.
A report by a 20-member commission established six months ago by Irish Justice Minister John O'Donoghue said one major concern is the impact which more alcohol outlets could have on underage drinking. It also mirrors trade calls in mainland Britain for a proof-of-age card to be promoted nationally.
Underage drinking is such a serious problem in the Irish Republic that the department of health is opposed to any liberalisation of the trade.
An EU survey recently put Irish young people at the top of the list of Europe's hard drinkers.
O'Donoghue has promised legislation later this year or early next to implement the commission's recommendations for more off-licences. But given the widespread concern about underage drinking, his government will be under pressure to have strict safeguards in place against possible abuse before the new outlets are opened.
Ministers in Westminster are likely to watch reaction to the Irish proposals closely as they consider their own plans for the National Alcohol Strategy which should be unveiled this year.
