Minister’s bill tough on drunks

THE Government has approved the publication of the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2003 which contains tough provisions to combat drunkenness and disorderly conduct and abolishes late opening on Thursdays.

The bill includes strict penalties in relation to the sale and supply of drink to drunken persons and those under 21 must have ID.

Closing time on Thursday nights is being brought back to 11.30pm and there is to be a prohibition on the provision of entertainment during the 30 minutes drinking-up time as well as a ban on promotions in bars which encourage drinking.