Study shows value of targeting bars over excess drinking

Research showing the benefits of targeted law enforcement of clubs and pubs has been welcomed by the police.

The study, commissioned by the Accident Compensation Corporation, looked at the impact of work by a special liquor policing unit in central Wellington, which operated during November and December 2004 and March and April 2005.

The unit focused on breaches of the Sale of Liquor Act relating to intoxicated patrons.

Police targeted pubs and clubs that had been linked with the greatest number of alcohol-related incidents.

"Studies like this help to reinforce the message that proactive policing works," said Wellington District Commander Superintendent Rob Pope.

"We need to get away from a reactive model where our officers simply go from dealing with one alcohol-fuelled fight, or detox pick-up, to the next.

"Given so many of these incidents concern people who have got 'liquored up' at bars and clubs, we need to ensure that licensed premises play by the rules, and don't serve drunks."

Mr Pope said it was illegal to allow intoxicated people to be in or remain on licensed premises.

It was also illegal to allow people to become intoxicated on licensed premises, or to serve intoxicated people, Mr Pope said.

Licensees, bar managers and staff can face fines of up to $10,000 if caught.

The study offered an insight into how the alcohol-related crime and disorder problems that police were having to deal with were also reflected in other services including ambulance call-outs, and hospital emergency department visits.

Police acknowledged it was not just a one-sided problem and drinkers needed to act sensibly too, Mr Pope said.

"We recognise that it can be hard sometimes to detect drinkers who are becoming intoxicated, especially in busy establishments with lots of people and low lighting.

"But ultimately the buck stops with venue owners and operators."

- NZPA