153. Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce powers for members of An Garda Síochána to enable them to confiscate alcohol from persons drinking in public. [18031/11] 

Minister for Justice and Equality (Deputy Alan Shatter): The position is that section 37A of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988, as inserted by section 14 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008, contains detailed provisions permitting a member of the Garda Síochána to seize intoxicating liquor in the possession of a person under 18 years of age. This power may be exercised where the member believes with reasonable cause that intoxicating liquor in a bottle or other container has been, is being or is intended to be consumed by the person concerned in a place other than a private dwelling.