Sir, - With reference to David Campbell's letter ( February 13th), I am the councillor who proposed the motion to ban drinking in public areas in the Dun Laoghaire Rathdown Council area in response to a major problem with underage drinking.
The by-law allows for the confiscation of alcohol or a fine of up to £1000. The bylaw still allows for the consumption of alcohol outside pubs or, if group wishes to organise a party on the beach, a permit may be applied for. What I am trying to achieve with this by-law is the elimination of vandalism, intimidation, and dirt caused by gangs of underage cider drinkers and to give public open spaces back to the residents who live there.
PS: There has always been a by-law banning drinking in public parks. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr Bernie Lowe, Shankill, Co Dublin.