Timely warning by PSNI on drink sales

It is widely recognised that the vast majority of licensed premises in the District are well run and provide an upstanding service to the community. However, despite all the ongoing good work of the majority of responsible licensees and their staff, the irresponsible actions of even just a few premises can unfortunately tarnish the industry’s reputation.

Inaction in relation to binge drinking contributes to a significant level of disorder visible on our streets, particularly on weekend nights.

All licensees must be aware of their obligations in relation how to run their premises and in particular allowing drunkenness on the premises. Ensure your door and bar staff are vigilant in order to prevent any potential problems or difficulties.

Challenge 21 – Protect your licence and ensure young persons under 18 years of age are not sold alcohol.

Ensure persons who appear to be drunk are not sold alcohol.

Plan ahead for spontaneous increase in customer numbers.

Check your numbers – do not permit any overcrowding within your premises.

Do not permit persons to leave premises carrying glasses and bottles.

Do not permit persons to leave premises with alcohol in open containers.

Please ensure that you avoid any form of drinks promotions, especially those that encourage excessive consumption of alcohol and binge drinking.

Make contact with local police to discuss any concerns that you may have regarding events on St. Patricks Day. Early contact with licensees/staff and police may assist in resource planning and resolve any potential problems or difficulties.

Normal Sunday hours apply on St. Patrick’s Day this year, 12.30pm to 10pm, with extensions to Midnight where the legal authority exists).

On St. Patrick’s Day the PSNI will pro-actively and robustly deal with trouble makers as is our policy on weekend nights. With your assistance and the assistance of our other partners we can make St Patrick’s Day a trouble free family day to be enjoyed by everyone.