Drink group’s independent view

QUESTIONS have been asked about the make-up of the Government Alcohol Advisory Group.

The chairman is an independent lawyer who chaired the Commission on Liquor Licensing which produced four reports.

The group includes a leading professor of criminology, a public health specialist, a senior member of the Garda Siochána and representatives from the departments of Justice and Health. It does not include any commercial representatives.

The group’s task is to examine key aspects of the law governing the sale and consumption of alcohol and related public order issues. The particular areas of concern are:

* The increase in the number of outlets with off-licences and the manner and conditions of sale of alcohol products in such outlets.

* The increasing number of special exemption orders which permit longer opening hours, and

* The use, adequacy and effectiveness of existing sanctions and penalties.

In the course of its examination, the group will consider particularly binge drinking and public order offences.

The group’s report to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform will also be influenced by a public consultation process which is currently underway.

It is hoped that all submissions from the public will be received by Monday, January 28.

For further information, please contact me at the address below.

Kathleen Connolly

Secretary

Government Alcohol Advisory Group

5th Floor, Block 1

Irish Life Centre

Lr Abbey Street

Dublin 1

email: [e-mail]