Ms Evelyn Jones:

I agree with Mr. Cribben in this regard. Fundamentally, it goes to two core issues, the first of which is that of education, and again I refer to drink-driving and smoking, where the impetus came from the children. It started at the bottom and worked its way up that it was unacceptable to smoke as a parent and was unacceptable to drink and drive. A young person now would not consider getting into a car with somebody who had taken alcohol. That is how education on those issues worked and, if possible, we should have the same education regarding alcohol. As to the second issue and to close the circle on the Chairman's previous question, I refer to the point at which the doorbell rings, the alcohol is presented and the 18 year old comes to the door with his Garda ID. Legally, he is entitled to purchase alcohol. Once the door closes, it depends on who is behind the door but the reality is that an 18 year old person who appeared at the front door is responsible for anybody behind it who is under the age of 18 and consuming alcohol. We seek an increased level of enforcement and if the laws that exist were used in respect of adults, that is, people aged 18 and over who are purchasing alcohol for those who are under 18, one could make serious inroads into this issue in a very brief period.