This article is from page 14 of the 2011-06-07 edition of The Clare People. OCR mistakes are to be expected so download the original SWF or the rendered page 14 JPG
AFTER hours drinking has become an issue in Kilkee pubs, but will no longer be tolerated, gardaí have pledged.
Two pubs were taken to court last week where fines were imposed for allowing people to be on the premises after hours.
Gardaí say that they will not tolerate law breaking and will crack down on after hours drinking in the coming months – as the tourist season reaches its height in the seaside resort.
Superintendent Gerry Wall, who is responsible for policing in the West Clare area, said the issue is particularly prevalent in Kilkee.
“It is more of an issue in Kilkee. Commonly, public order is blamed on late hours and drink being sold late. Exemptions cost around € 400 to serve alcohol for one-and-a-half to two hours outside the normal closing hours. Publicans need to understand that fact. They cannot be expected to be allowed to trade unless they have an exemption,” Supt Wall told The Clare People .
“The message is not one of putting licensees out of business. It is mere- ly to have reasonable compliance with the legislation. People who apply for exemptions will have the full benefit of exemptions,” he said.
Supt Wall also said that underage drinking will be targeted over the forthcoming summer months.
“We will target licensed premises and off-licences for underage drinking and selling to young people. People who complain of public order and disorder should recognise the fact there is huge responsibility on licence holders to sell drink only to people who are entitled to receive it,” he said.
“Adults buying alcohol for underage people is an issue. They do contribute to public order. It is very important in 2011 that businesses are allowed every opportunity to sell their area to prospective businesses. However, these people are damaging the community,” he said.
“Business in Kilkee is seasonal. We don’t want to hammer them, but they must act responsibly,” he added.
“They have my full support in promoting their businesses, events and festivals. Most of the retailers with wine licenses do act responsibly,” he said.