Justice bill to 'significantly reduce' excessive drinking
04/06/2008 - 18:33:20The Justice Minister Dermot Ahern says he hopes a new Bill published today will significantly reduce excessive drinking here.
Under the 2008 Intoxicating Liqour Bill, gardaí will have new powers to seize alcohol from anyone who appears to be under-age.
Off-license opening hours will be curtailed: they will have to shut at 10pm.
Tougher restrictions on the sale and promotion of reduced price alcohol will also be introduced.
It is hoped that the new Bill will be passed before the Dáil's summer recess.
Minister Ahern said while he was not condemning drinking, levels of alcohol consumption must be significantly reduced.
