Government blasted over underage drinking
He said government “inaction” over the introduction of cards is hampering efforts to curb the situation.
Mr Shiel, who heads the 330-member National Off-Licence Association, said a mandatory ID card system was the first, fundamental step in dealing with underage drinking.
He also called for more support and co-operation from the public in tackling alcohol abuse and underage drinking.
“To date the Government has been passing the responsibility on to the retailers, and while we have been very active in putting our own houses in order, it is not good enough that the Government has abdicated its responsibilities in this area,” he said.
But young people must accept more responsibility for their abuse of alcohol.
The association’s 330 members constantly insisted on seeing identification from every person of questionable age wishing to purchase alcohol.
But the determined efforts of many young people to present themselves as being of legal age - either through forged ID or adult appearance - left alcohol retailers in a very challenging position, said Mr Shiel.
“We continue to plead with the Government to act decisively and solve this problem through a mandatory ID card for people in this age bracket and, until they do so, the problems will persist”, he said.
Mr Shiel also called on the public at large to play a more active role in discouraging underage drinking.
In relation to the issue of adults purchasing alcohol on behalf of underage drinkers, Mr Shiel was adamant that his members would continue to take a tough stance. “Any adult found purchasing alcohol for a minor is automatically reported to the gardaí.
Currently, a passport, Garda ID card, driving licence or EC identity card are the only forms of ID acceptable under the 2003 Intoxicating Liquor Act.
The Cider Industry Council, through chairman Peter McKimm, supported the call for a mandatory ID card system to be introduced.
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