17 October 2007

Media Release
Available for immediate use

Liquor reforms helpful but do not go far enough
 
“Liquor reforms announced by government should make a contribution to reducing the abuse of alcohol by minors”, said Bruce Robertson, Chief Executive of the Hospitality Association.  Particularly pleasing is the increased responsibility on adults supplying alcohol to minors and the enhanced enforcement provisions for minors utilising false ID to try and purchase alcohol.

While these measures are all helpful the Association is disappointed that the government have not picked up some of its proposals which would have made an even greater contribution to reducing harm to young people from alcohol.

The only way to really make a significant difference is to make it illegal for those under the age of 18 to drink alcohol unless it is supplied by a parent or guardian who then takes responsibility for any consequences.

Mr Robertson said that increasing the balance of responsibility on New Zealanders around intoxication by making intoxication illegal in a public place would have sent a clear message to minors and all New Zealanders that drinking to excess is not acceptable in New Zealand society.  Equally disappointing is that the government have done nothing to address the impact of supermarkets using alcohol as a loss leader which makes alcohol readily available to young people.

Mr Robertson indicated that the Association would be revisiting these issues in their submissions to the Select Committee.

ENDS

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