Convictions for selling alcohol to minors show sharp fall

THE number of convictions for selling alcohol to minors has fallen by more than half since 2002.

That year, 56 convictions were secured from 116 prosecutions were launched. But last year, there were just 24 convictions — a reduction of 57% — from a total of 77 prosecutions.

The figures were released by Justice Minister Michael McDowell to Labour TD Roisin Shortall.

Anyone found guilty of selling alcohol to minors is liable to a fine of up to €1,500 for a first offence and €2,000 for subsequent offences. It is also an offence to buy alcohol for people under 18 or to give alcohol to minors unless in a domestic setting with parental or guardian approval.

Again, those found guilty of these offences are liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €1,500 for a first offence and €2,000 for subsequent offences.

The Government says new legislation currently making its way through the Dáil will strengthen provisions designed to combat sales to underage persons. The legislation will, for example, require all off-licences to have written policies and control procedures.

The legislation will also create a new offence of being in possession of a forged age card “with intent to deceive”. Teenagers caught using such cards could face fines of up to €3,000.

But one specialist who researched substance abuse among teenagers in Cork and Kerry said earlier this month that the Government should raise the legal age for drinking to 21.

Dr Tim Jackson, a specialist in public health medicine, also proposed a considerable rise in the price of alcohol to put it out of the reach of minors.

“The price of drink is too cheap and it should be raised considerably so that young people cannot afford it,” he said.