Call for ID card to combat underage drinking

A national ID card should be compulsory for everyone over the age of 18, according to a leading alcohol-abuse awareness group.

Mature Enjoyment of Alcohol in Society (MEAS) welcomed the launch today of a voluntary new tamper-proof garda age card, but called for the roll-out of a compulsory identification card to combat under-age drinking.

The group has also criticised the €10 levy on the card, which it argues will discourage young people from applying.

“There is little doubt that a national compulsory Age Card scheme would help reduce the problem of underage drinking. It would certainly help pubs and off-licence premises to properly police the underage drinking law, and it would also help parents in addressing issues around alcohol with their teenage children,” said MEAS Chief Executive Fionnuala Sheehan.

Research undertaken by MEAS two years ago revealed that 80% of parents supported a national ID policy. That same research also found 69% of 16 and 17 year olds admitted to using false ID cards to get into places serving alcohol.

The card, which is equipped with high level security deterrents to safeguard against forgery or theft, was launched by Minister for Justice Michael McDowell.

It includes an encoded magnetic strip, security links, holograms and special printing features ensuring it cannot be copied.