The Law

Underage Drinking In Ireland

Information from Police

• You cannot buy alcohol in Ireland if you are under 18

• You can drink at home regardless of age with parents permission

• It is illegal to drink in public – fine of €63/ 55 Sterling/ 123 Leva

Source: Section 33 Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988

Legal Limit For Drivers

• Blood limit – More than 80mg/100ml

• Urine limit – More than 107mg/100ml

• Breath limit – More than 35ug/100ml

Maximum Penalties For Drink DrivingAlcohol Levels First Offence Second Offence

80mgs-100mgs 1 year Disqualification 2 year Disqualification

101mgs-150mgs 2 year Disqualification 4 year Disqualification

151mgs-Excess 3 year Disqualification 6 year Disqualification

Procedure If Caught Drink Driving

• Arrested under section 49 of the Road Traffic Act 1961-2006

• Brought to station to provide either a blood sample, breath or urine sample

• Charged if over limit• Summoned to appear in court

Source: Local Garda Station

MAJOR CHANGE IN POWER OF POLICE

• Police now have the power to setup check points

• The right to make random tests of all drivers• Can now be convicted on breathalyzer alone

Penalties for causing injury or death while under the influence of alcohol

• Dangerous Driving Up to 10 years in Prisonand/or• Fines up to €20,000

Powers of the police when minors (under 18) are caught with alcohol in a public place

• Seizure of bottle and containers• Can demand name, address and age• Can Arrest• Have Power of entry to a premises

Selling alcohol as a retailer (shopkeeper)

• You are responsible if you sell to a minor• 1st offence - €1270• Temporary closure order for 7 days• 2nd offence €1905 • Temporary closure order for 7-30 days• Same fines for adult buying drink for minor• Each Retailer has to renew their license to trade each

year

Source: Section 32 Intoxicating Liquor Act 1981