Gardaí will be given extended powers to confiscate alcohol under the Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2008 that was introduced in the Dáil today by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Dermot Ahern.
The Bill is based on recommendations set out in the report of the Government Alcohol Advisory Group that was presented to Minister on March 31st.
Under the Bill, gardaí can seize containers from anyone they believe to be under 18 and in possession of alcohol that has been consumed or may be consumed by someone under age outside a private dwelling;
Gardaí will also get powers to seize alcohol from anyone, regardless of their age, where the consumption of alcohol in a public place is causing, or is likely to cause, annoyance, a nuisance or a breach of the peace.
Among the other provisions of the Bill, wine off-licences will require a District Court certificate, and off-sales of alcohol will be permitted only between 10.30am and 10pm. (12.30pm. to 10pm on Sundays).
Moreover, alcohol products being solid in retail outlets must be displayed and sold in a specified area that is structurally separated from the rest of the premises or, where this is not possible, be displayed and sold from behind a counter.
The Government has given a pardon to existing “early houses” under the anti-drink legislation.
Nonetheless, after May 30th, pubs will not be allowed to apply for special exemption orders to serve alcohol in the early morning.
Early houses, which have been in Ireland since the 1920s, were originally intended to provide refreshments for sailors docking at unsociable hours or traders travelling long distances to markets.
“The legislative reforms set out in the Bill are designed to tackle public disorder and alcohol-related harm resulting from excessive alcohol consumption,” Mr Ahern said.
He added the Bill represents a “balanced and proportionate” response.
Additional reporting PA
