Attwood welcomes end of 'all you can drink' promotion

Social Development Minister Alex Attwood today welcomed the announcement by Pubs of Ulster that a Belfast bar owner has discontinued their 'all you can drink' promotion.

The Minister recognises that the big majority of licensees act responsibly in running their business, the undesirable health and social consequences of irresponsible promotions are widely recognised.

Alex Attwood said: "Promotions such as 'all you can drink' for £25 are irresponsible. They encourage people to drink more that they normally would, not to mention the damaging effects on themselves and society. The right arguments, public concerns and a strong lead within government and the licence trade has prevailed.

“I have already announced plans to introduce controls for pubs, clubs, supermarkets and other outlets, following problems presented by irresponsible drinks promotions and cheap alcohol. In practice this would allow the introduction of pricing controls or restrictions on other types of promotional activity which my Department deems to be necessary to discourage excessive drinking.”

Minister Attwood also responded to claims about after hours sales by saying: “As regards concerns about licensed premises serving alcohol beyond closing time, I would reiterate my advice that such illegal activity should be reported to the PSNI and my Department. Any premises selling alcohol in any in breach of the law should be cracked down on. I as Minister and my Department want to know if it is happening and where and I will make the strongest representation to the PSNI to stop it. The right arguments, public concerns and a strong lead within government and the licence trade has prevailed.”

Notes to editors:

1. Monday’s Radio Ulster Talkback programme featured an interview with Social Development Minister Alex Attwood, Pubs of Ulster Chief Executive Colin Neill and Library bar owner John Sherry about his £25 “all you can drink” promotion following front page headlines in Monday’s Irish News.
2. Minister Attwood has already announced his intention to bring forward legislation banning irresponsible alcohol promotions.
3. Media enquiries to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.