Publicans who took dud notes from youths face prosecution

PUBS and nightclubs which accepted dud euro banknotes from youths aged between 15 and 17 in return for alcoholic drinks could be prosecuted for serving young people.

Premises in several Kerry towns which took in up to €5,000 in forged notes are now being investigated under sections of the licensing laws covering under-age people, senior gardai confirmed yesterday.

The four male youths who passed the notes may yet be asked to give evidence in court against the premises which accepted the notes. If convicted, the premises could be closed for a period.