The Vintners' Federation of Ireland (VFI) sent out its now-annual warning to publicans to be extra vigilant tomorrow as students across the country celebrate their Junior Certificate results.
"We are urging our members to only serve young people with a valid National Age Card," said Mr Joe Browne, President, VFI.
The VFI also urged parents to take responsibility, by being aware of their children's whereabouts and social activities.
"Young people gain access to alcohol by many means. Parents also have aserious responsibility to be aware of their children's actions andwhereabouts," Mr Browne added.
Mr Browne said while publicans are conscious of the need to be vigilant against under-age drinking the problem needed to be tackled not just by the VFI's members but by the whole of society.
"Parents, the Gardaí, teachers, young people themselves as well aspublicans need to work together to ensure that students celebrate safely andappropriately this week," said Mr Browne.
"Minister McDowell's proposal earlier this year that those aged between 18and 25 should carry ID cards in order to be served alcohol in pubs iswelcomed by the VFI. Hopefully this measure will soon be in place so thatthis time next year publicans can accurately ensure that they only servethose who are legally allowed to buy alcohol," Mr Browne concluded.