Sting operation targets North underage drink sales

Sting operations to target off-licenses selling alcohol to underage drinkers are being authorised in the North, it was announced today.

The police will be handed special powers to conduct test purchase operations on premises suspected of selling to minors early next week.

They will involve underage volunteers trying to buy drink at retail counters.

Security Minister Paul Goggins confirmed the introduction of the measures at an event in Belfast to urge revellers to get home safe over the festive period.

The powers are included in the recently enacted Criminal Justice Order, which is bringing many aspects of the Northern Ireland justice system in line with the rest of the UK.

“Underage drinking is an issue across Northern Ireland which brings with it unwanted anti-social behaviour,” said Mr Goggins.

“The Government is working to address these problems and I will shortly commence new powers that will allow the police to conduct test purchase operations in order to pinpoint and punish those licence holders who sell alcohol to minors.

“I am pleased that the majority of license holders are already taking steps to combat underage sales.

“But those who are still selling alcohol to young people need to be identified and dealt with. I firmly believe that these new powers will help us to do that.”

The ’Get Home Safe’ campaign is a joint initiative involving Mr Goggins’ department, the PSNI and Belfast City Council.

The minister said the annual drive was an excellent example of organisations working together to prevent late night alcohol misuse.

“Our message to young people is enjoy Christmas but be aware of your own limits,” he added.

“In particular we are urging young people to ’think when you drink’ in order to make sure that they also stay safe.”

Belfast Lord Mayor Councillor Tom Hartley said he wanted everyone to enjoy themselves at Christmas but to ensure they did it safely.

“Christmas is a time for having fun and enjoying parties with friends and colleagues, and we want to see people out having a good time in our city over the coming weeks.

“But there is a serious message here today for people to keep their wits about them when they are out and about; stay together, watch your drink, don’t wander off alone, and plan your journey home in advance. We’re not here to spoil anyone’s fun, we just want everyone to ’Get Home Safe’.”

The campaign message will be displayed on phone kiosks, billboards, bus shelters and in washrooms of pubs and clubs across Belfast.

Party-goers with bluetooth technology on their mobile phones will also be targeted with messages.

PSNI Chief Superintendent George Hamilton said: “Belfast has developed into a really vibrant city. During the festive period there will be thousands more people coming into Belfast to shop or enjoy a night out.

“We will have an increased police presence in the city centre over the Christmas period. Officers will be in the right places at the right time to make Belfast safer for everyone.

“Overall crime in the city centre is down. The number of violent crimes has dropped by 6.8% – that is 211 fewer violent crimes so far this year.

“We will continue to work with our partners to prevent and detect crime but would appeal to people to help us. The most important thing they can do on a night out is look after themselves and their friends and ensure they get home safely.”

Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie is also supporting the campaign.

“As the minister responsible for social development I share Minister Goggins’ concerns about alcohol abuse and the harm it can bring to our young people and our wider society,” she said.

“It is important at the very least that young people can get home safely after a night out.”