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Drinks Industry calls for support for Gardai over St Patrick's Day

The Chairman of the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (DIGI)*, Kieran Tobin, has called on publicans and retailers to build on the success of recent years and to work with the Gardai over the upcoming St Patrick's Day weekend to reduce the likelihood of public order issues and, in particular, to prevent minors accessing alcohol. 

Mr Tobin commented, 'St Patrick's Day is a major national celebration and a unique opportunity to showcase the best of Ireland to the rest of the world. Thousands of visitors will come to Ireland to enjoy the unique atmosphere and we must do all in our power to ensure that nothing tarnishes the occasion. 

'In recent years the celebration has passed-off largely incident-free. This has been achieved through greater responsibility from publicans and retailers, greater co-operation with the Gardai, and more vigilance from parents and the general public. 

'We want that to continue this year and to ensure that the holiday is a memorable occasion for the Irish people, for tourists, and for businesses.

'The Drinks Industry recognises that our products, our pubs, and our retailers all play an important role in celebrating St Patrick's Day, but we want to ensure that this special and unique day is not spoiled either by those who misuse alcohol or through minors accessing alcohol. 

'I am therefore calling on all our members to continue the good work of previous years and to co-operate with event organisers and the Gardai to make sure the day is a successful and enjoyable for everyone.'