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Derry bans on-street drinking
08.07.10
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DERRY City Council has
erected no-alcohol signs in a number of hotspot
areas of the city following new laws prohibiting the
consumption of alcohol in public places.
This bye-law means Derry City Council can prosecute
offending drinkers who are reported to them by the
PSNI. The maximum fine is up to £500.
City Secretary and solicitor for Derry City Council,
Damien McMahon explains: “This new bye-law has
greatly increased the number of designated streets
and public places in the Derry City Council local
government district where the consumption of alcohol
is prohibited.
“I would ask people to be aware of this new law
especially coming into the summer season when
on-street drinking is more common. We are working
closely with the PSNI to enforce the alcohol bye-law
in streets and public places.“
The signs are being erected in council parks and
areas that are particularly prone to the consumption
of alcohol in streets and have been associated with
a high number of incidents of anti-social behaviour
reported to the authorities. |
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Mr McMahon said: “This
legislation forms part of our work to reduce
on-street and underage drinking .The relationship
between on-street drinking and anti-social behaviour
is well established and the result of such incidents
can be devastating not only for individuals but for
the entire community and city in general. This new
bye-law will help to reduce public disorder and the
fear of crime, creating a safer environment for
everyone and enabling all our citizens to enjoy
public spaces.”
Meanwhile, PSNI Foyle area commander, Chief
Inspector Chris Yates added: “The erection of the
new signage means there is no excuse when it comes
to members of the public drinking alcohol in areas
covered by the bye-laws. On-street and underage
drinking is an issue for police and we will continue
to work in partnership with Derry City Council to
enforce the legislation as and when necessary.”
Similarly tough new legislation was introduced
earlier this year to tackle anyone under the age of
18 drinking in public places. New powers were
extended to the PSNI under the Policing and Crime
Act 2009, which enable them to confiscate all
alcohol, including unopened cans and bottles, from
young people. Young people under 18 years of age can
now be prosecuted for persistently possessing drink
in a public place and if caught three or more times
within a 12 month period, could face a maximum
penalty of a £500 fine. Police also have the power
to bring young people under the age of 16 back home
if they suspect they have been drinking.
For further information or to view a list of all the
streets affected by the new bye-law visit
www.derrycity.gov.uk/byelaws/ . |
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