Padraig Cribben, CEO, Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI)

The Vintners’ Federation of Ireland (VFI) is aware of the dangers associated with the misuse of alcohol by young people during the celebration of Leaving Certificate results.

As a key industry stakeholder, the VFI believes it is vital to educate our young people on responsible drinking. The pub remains the safest place to enjoy a drink responsibly. It is a safe, regulated environment with professionally trained, experienced staff.

The root of the problem surrounding the potential for alcohol misuse amongst the younger generation is a consequence of the irresponsible promotion and sale of alcohol by supermarkets. This leads to our younger generation “pre loading” on cheap alcohol, a practice made possible by the supermarkets.

Students wishing to enter a pub and enjoy a drink to celebrate their Leaving Certificate results will be asked to produce identification showing they are of legal age and we would remind students to ensure they have this with them.

We strongly urge those celebrating their results to do so responsibly and remind them that the pub is the safest place to do this.