Andrew Doyle (Wicklow, Fine Gael)
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Question 253: To ask the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of temporary closure orders that have been issued for sale of alcohol to children under 18 years since the implementation of the Intoxicating Liquor Acts 2003 and 2004; if any enforcement action has been taken regarding the prohibition of consumption of alcohol by children under 18 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18137/10]

Dermot Ahern (Louth, Fianna Fail)
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I am informed by the Garda authorities that, since 2003 and up to 28 April, 2010, 210 temporary closure orders have been issued under the Intoxicating Liquor Acts for offences relating to the sale and supply of alcohol to, and consumption by, persons under 18 years of age.

Operation Encounter, was commenced by the Garda Commissioner in February, 2002 to target public disorder and anti-social behaviour against the community and local businesses. The Operation specifically targets offences under the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1996 and the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988, which include the sale and consumption of alcohol by underage persons. Almost 615,000 offences have been detected since the commencement of Operation Encounter.

All members of An Garda Síochána proactively target public disorder and anti-social behaviour. Areas subject to such behaviour have been identified as hot-spots by local Garda management, and additional foot and mobile patrols are directed at these areas during times when these offences are more likely to occur. All such incidents detected by members on patrol or reported to An Garda Síochána are dealt with immediately and the suspected offenders are dealt with in accordance with the law.