Martin Ferris (Kerry North, Sinn Fein)
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Question 153: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to address the problem of persons under 18 hassling adults to purchase alcohol for them outside off-licences; and the measures that will be contained in the up-coming Liquor Licensing Bill or otherwise to tackle the problem. [9004/08]

Brian Lenihan Jnr (Dublin West, Fianna Fail)
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As the Deputy is no doubt aware, I have asked the Government Alcohol Advisory Group to examine the public order aspects of the sale and consumption of alcohol and to report to me by 31 March. Among the key issues being examined by the Group is the adequacy and effectiveness of existing sanctions and penalties, particularly those relating to the sale and supply of alcohol to, and alcohol consumption by, under-age persons.

I look forward to receiving the Group's Report, and their recommendation on how best to proceed in this and related matters, by the 31 March deadline. I intend then to bring forward urgent proposals for legislative reforms which, with the assistance of both Houses, will be enacted and implemented before the Summer recess.