POLICE in Downpatrick are keen to ensure that everyone enjoys the festivities in and around St Patrick’s Day and have appealed for the local community to support their efforts.
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Have fun, will travel: The message from the police is to enjoy the festival and avoid anti-social behaviour and alcohol related incidents. [/caption]
A number of events will be taking place during the week leading up to St Patrick’s Day as well as on the day and evening itself. Local police will be providing additional patrols throughout the area and assistance where required.
PSNI Down Area Commander, Chief Inspector Deirdre Bones, said: “We want everyone to enjoy the St Patrick’s Day celebrations and hope that this year runs as successfully and smoothly as last year.
“As with all celebrations planned for St Patrick’s Day we will provide appropriate support and assistance, and I would ask all of those with influence in the community to work with us to ensure that all events are equally supported and respected throughout the course of the day.
“Some of the issues we will be focusing on are anti-social behaviour and the misuse of alcohol in public spaces. My officers will be on the streets over the busy Bank Holiday weekend, to ensure anyone wishing to travel, work or socialise in the Down District area can do so safely.”
Local residents are also reminded of potential traffic disruption in the town between approximately 2pm and 5pm on St Patrick’s Day.
The legislation and bye-laws that exist in relation to the misuse of alcohol in public spaces will be invoked if breached. It is illegal to:
* Consume alcohol in any designated street or public place * Drink alcohol on the route of a public procession (this applies six hours prior to, during and up to 12 midnight after the parade taking place) * For under 18’s to drink alcohol in a public place
Police will not hesitate to enforce the legislation and where possible confiscate or seize alcohol.In addition, any adults found purchasing or supplying alcohol for use by juveniles may be liable for prosecution.
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The PSNI Traffic Branch entered their Project Evolution high tech car in the St Patrick’s Parade in Downpatrick last year. [/caption]]]>
