Last Saturday I ventured out to Paceville and was utterly surprised to find it relatively empty. I was surprised since I admit I do not go there very often. As I was driving back home at about 2 a.m. I encountered not one but four groups of youths aged 14 to 17, all of whom were drinking alcohol.

Following some reflection this morning I came to the conclusion that the law barring entry in clubs and bars to those aged under 17 is defeating its purpose.

This may be because while these teenagers are being kept out of Paceville because of this regulation, they have free access to alcoholic drinks at very low prices from supermarkets; this is giving rise to further drink-related problems.

Another factor I considered is that in Paceville, they can drink under supervision of the authorities that are always close at hand. Medical help is also readily available.

I compared this with the youths I saw out in the street and it was a sad sight indeed.

In view of the above, I hope that the Minister of Health takes steps to lower the ban on consuming alcohol in bars and clubs to those aged under 16, instead of 17.