be serving alcohol to minors, nothing happens to the actual purchaser or to their parents.

Pointing out this disparity recently was local pub owner Tommy Gallagher who contends that the current law is not doing all it should to counter the problem.

"I believe that the parents or guardians of these underage drinkers, should be held accountable in addition to the licensed premises,'' Mr. Gallagher told visiting alcohol expert Paula Stanghetta from the Centre on Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention (CADA).

"Also the individual who was drinking at present has nothing happen to them,'' Mr. Gallagher continued. "I think they should be subjected to some form of penalty -- community service comes to mind, and they should have mandatory counselling.'' Mrs. Stanghetta agreed with Mr. Gallagher's ideas.

"We should do all we can to inspire parents to take responsibility now,'' she said.

But she noted: "Legislation can take a very long time to change.''