Clubs and bars across the county have been urged to take care when accepting bookings for events that may attract large numbers of guests who are under 18 – particularly when GCSE results will be announced.
Carmarthenshire licensing officers along with Dyfed Powys Police have been working with licensed premises to ensure effective systems are in place to deal with bookings that may cause problems for clubs and wider communities.
Advice has been circulated asking that extra care is taken to scrutinise bookings and to ensure that measures are in place to prevent the sale of alcohol to under 18s, and prevent the consumption of alcohol by minors on licensed premises.
Landlords have also been asked to ensure effective arrangements are in place to monitor and control areas around their premises where youths may gather.
Landlords will be asking all adults making bookings at their premises to confirm their booking in person and confirm that adequate adults will be in attendance to supervise younger guests.
Cllr Jim Jones, Executive Board Member for Public Protection, said: “We are working together with licensed premises to ensure that all events are properly managed, particularly during times when large numbers of minors may be attending.
“There have been previous incidences when event bookings have been taken where it had not been confirmed or anticipated that the vast majority of those attending would be under 18. When these event details are shared on social media, it can often be difficult to manage and can cause problems for the premises and wider community.”
Inspector Alun Samuel of the police Neighbourhood Development Department, added: “If events to celebrate GCSE results are to take place in clubs and pubs, they need to be managed and supervised correctly so those attending stay safe.”
Carmarthenshire County Council, as the licensing authority, has reminded landlords of their responsibilities in ensuring the prevention of crime and disorder, preventing public nuisance, protecting children from harm, and ensuring public safety, and has warned that licences and certificates may be reviewed if evidence suggests that licensing objectives have not been promoted.
For further information on licensing, visit the council’s website, www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales
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