We should ban the selling of alcohol in supermarkets and this would go some way towards solving some of the problems associated with drinking in public places.
That is according to Green Party councillor Malcolm Noonan, who was commenting on the new liquor bye-laws agreed by the members of the council last week for the county area.
The bye-laws have been drafted by Kilkenny County Council for the prohibition of the consumption of alcohol in public places, in properties, or public areas under the control of the council in the county towns including Callan, Castlecomer, Thomastown, Graiguenamanagh, and Kilkenny city environs.
“We could curb drinking if there was a ban on selling alcohol so cheaply in supermarkets,” Cllr Noonan said. “There is much easier access to cheaper alcohol as a result of cheap liquor in the shops. A ban would also help publicans who are struggling with a waning trade during the recession. I suggest the council writes to the minister regarding this issue.”
Cllr Martin Brett pointed out that 14 per cent more alcohol was being bought nowadays, according to a recent survey.
“Consumption at home is becoming a real problem and this is only on the increase,” he said. “I have a list as long as my arm of problems related to alcohol consumption at home and it’s only getting larger.”
Cllr John Brennan of Clough pointed out that the bye-laws did not go far enough and didn’t include areas such as parks and open spaces outside of the county towns.
“Drinking in villages in public places such as parks, fields, and playgrounds is also a problem and these laws don’t cover these areas.” he said. “I propose we enact laws that cover areas outside of towns in the future.”
John McCormack pointed out that the Gardaí also have powers of their own when it comes to public order and drinking in public places.
Cllr Ann Phelan welcomed the move saying, “It is a step in the right direction and once we get it up and working we can then look at covering other areas”.
