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02/02/2010
Young NI Boozers Tackled
It has emerged today that tougher laws regarding underage drinking in public places have been introduced.
The legislation that has come into effect includes confiscation of all alcohol - which was already taking place where it was detected in public areas in a limited way - harsher penalties for persistent offenders and even the police escorting teenagers under the age of 16 who are suspected of consuming alcohol to their homes.
Criminal Justice Minister Paul Goggins said that only open containers could be confiscated under previous rules, or in cases where there was a perceived intent to consume.
Now, under the new law this will include unopened containers, meaning even a bag of unopened bottles and cans could be taken.
Also, anyone under the age of 18 guilty of persistent drinking in public places may be prosecuted, or if caught three times or more in a 12-month period could face a £500 fine.
Mr Goggins said: "Police will also have the power to bring young people under the age of 16 back home if they suspect they have been drinking."
The move follows last month's announcement by the UK Home Office Minister Alan Campbell, who said: "These powers will make it easier for police to take tough action against those groups whose behaviour can affect a whole community."
See: Tighter Underage Drinking Powers
(BMcC/GK)
The legislation that has come into effect includes confiscation of all alcohol - which was already taking place where it was detected in public areas in a limited way - harsher penalties for persistent offenders and even the police escorting teenagers under the age of 16 who are suspected of consuming alcohol to their homes.
Criminal Justice Minister Paul Goggins said that only open containers could be confiscated under previous rules, or in cases where there was a perceived intent to consume.
Now, under the new law this will include unopened containers, meaning even a bag of unopened bottles and cans could be taken.
Also, anyone under the age of 18 guilty of persistent drinking in public places may be prosecuted, or if caught three times or more in a 12-month period could face a £500 fine.
Mr Goggins said: "Police will also have the power to bring young people under the age of 16 back home if they suspect they have been drinking."
The move follows last month's announcement by the UK Home Office Minister Alan Campbell, who said: "These powers will make it easier for police to take tough action against those groups whose behaviour can affect a whole community."
See: Tighter Underage Drinking Powers
(BMcC/GK)
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