The Intoxicating Liquor Act, 1988 was designed to make it as difficult as possible for persons under the age of 18 years to be sold alcohol, to be in possession of it or consume it other than in a private residence. The Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2000 strengthened the law in this regard by providing for the removal of the reasonable belief defence of licence holders in selling alcohol to under age persons and by providing that where a conviction for the sale of alcohol to an under age person is upheld, the licensed premises may be closed for a specified period. From the date of commencement of the Act in the year 2000 to 23 September 2002, some 118 closure orders were made by the courts.