A Fine Gael Senator is calling for pubs and nightclubs to make lids available for drinks they serve in a bid to clamp down on spiking.
Longford Senator Micheál Carrigy has claimed that the proposal has received a “positive response” from the Vintners Federation of Ireland (VFI) who “seem open to examining the idea.”
He said: “I want to see pubs and clubs making lids available for the drinks served in their premises to help protect people from the dangerous practice of spiking.
READ MORE: Latest on nightclub opening hour changes as timeline given for major nightlife boost
“Drink spiking is an extremely dangerous practice and unfortunately seems to be on the rise, with too many young people, mainly women, speaking of their experiences of this all over the country of late.
“I am pleased to say this proposal has received a positive response so far from the Vintners Federation of Ireland, and they seem open to examining the idea.”
A spokesman for the VFI said: “We have read media reports but have yet to receive any approach about the issue.”
Senator Carrigy said the proposal was brought forward after a meeting with a domestic violence group with Justice Minister Helen McEntee.
He said: “Several of the groups we met proposed the introduction of lids for glasses in nightclubs or pubs.
“I believe this is very doable. Lids are provided for drinks in shops and cafes, so it can be done in pubs and clubs also.
“I recently brought Minister for Justice Helen McEntee to meet with both Longford Women's Link, a domestic violence group and Comhairle na nÓg, to discuss issues of safety for women and young people.
“Minister McEntee has previously highlighted that drink spiking is a criminal offence, classified as poisoning and can lead to a three year prison sentence.
“I want to see a zero-tolerance approach to this crime, but I also believe that licensed premises can do their bit to help prevent this happening by making lids available for drinks.
“I look forward to future engagement with the Vintners Federation of Ireland on this matter.”
Get breaking news to your inbox by signing up to our newsletter .
