How does the Act affect events such as under 18 discos held in nightclubs?
A It is unlawful under the Act to allow unaccompanied children aged less than 16 years into relevant premises between midnight and 5 a.m. where alcohol is supplied for consumption on the premises. In effect, this will apply to many nightclubs as they operate longer hours and have alcohol for sale after midnight. For licensees or night clubs to stage under-18 discos, they will have to outline their intentions in their operating schedule, including descriptions of the measures they propose to take to promote the protection of children from harm. In most instances, the presence of an organiser of the event should be satisfactory in ensuring that the children attending the event are accompanied by an adult. In addition, if the premises in question does not serve any alcohol on the night of the event and only sells soft drinks to the under 18s, the rule will not apply.
