Pubs of Ulster & PSNI Christmas Letter 2010

09 December 2010

Pubs of Ulster and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) continue to work in partnership to ensure a safe, professional and responsible Pub trade across Northern Ireland.

It is widely recognised that the vast majority of licensed premises are well run and provide a valuable service to the communities they serve. However, despite the ongoing good work of the majority of responsible licensees and their staff, the irresponsible actions of even just a few premises can unfortunately tarnish the industry�s reputation. Therefore as we approach Christmas, Pubs of Ulster and the PSNI are asking all licensees to ensure they plan ahead for the festive season taking account of the increased footfall and the potential high spirits of customers at this time of year. With �Test Purchasing� now in operation across the province it is also a good time to remind staff of the need to check ID, providing a clear message to customers that if you look under 21 and have no identification, you will not be served. �Challenge 21 posters can be obtained from Pubs of Ulster - e-mail: enquiries@pubsofulster.org or by telephoning (028) 9032 7578. When planning ahead here are a few key points to remember: Your Christmas List: 1. Challenge 21 � Protect your license and ensure young persons under 18 years of age are not sold alcohol 2. Ensure persons who appear to be drunk are not sold alcohol 3. Plan ahead for any anticipated or spontaneous increase in customer numbers. Ensuring you have an adequate number of door and bar staff available 4. Check your numbers - don�t permit any overcrowding within your premises 5. Think about how you can minimise any disturbance to any nearby business or residential neighbours regarding noise and when customers leave your premises 6. Finish the night by playing appropriate low-key music that will reduce high spirits of customers before they leave your venue, especially during the final drinking up time. 7. Make early contact with local Police to discuss any concerns that you might have regarding events at Christmas. Early contact between licensees/staff and Police may assist in resource planning and resole any potential problems or difficulties 8. Please ensure that you avoid any form of irresponsible drinks promotions, especially those that encourage excessive consumption of alcohol and binge drinking. 9. Encourage your customers to plan ahead for their journey home. Where possible facilitate customers to order taxis before leaving your premises. 10. Good planning makes good business sense. Finally, may we take this opportunity to wish everyone in the trade a safe and prosperous Christmas, and a very happy New Year.