Drinks industry urges vigilance against underage drinking

The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has urged its members to be especially vigilant over the St. Patrick’s Day festival this weekend to prevent underage people getting access to alcohol.

The Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI) has today urged its members to be especially vigilant over the St Patrick’s Day festival this weekend to prevent underage people getting access to alcohol.

“We’re reminding all of our members that increased numbers of young people may try to get access to alcohol illegally this week and they need to be extra vigilant to prevent it,” said spokesman Ray Gordon.

Gordon also urged members of the public not to engage in “secondary purchasing” - the practice of buying alcohol on behalf of underage brothers, sisters or friends.

“People have to be aware of their individual responsibilities when it comes to alcohol. Buying drink to pass over to an underage friend or family member is highly irresponsible and could have serious consequences for the person to whom the drink is given.”

DIGI's members include publicans, off licences, drinks manufacturers and others involved in the manufacturer or sale of alcohol.