THE CHAIRMAN of Fife’s Licensing Board has responded to criticisms from Central Fife MSP Tricia Marwick that it has to get a “serious grip” on the problem of under-age drinking.

As reported in yesterday’s Courier, Mrs Marwick said she was of the opinion that more needed to be done to prevent youngsters getting hold of alcohol.

Councillor Andrew Rodger said he welcomed Mrs Marwick’s comments but said the licensing board was taking a “proactive approach” to tackling the issue.

“We are working closely with licensed traders, Fife Constabulary and Fife Licensing Forum, which includes representatives from the public and NHS.

“In January we ran eight awareness-raising sessions, attended by almost half of Fife’s licence holders, which used videos to highlight the sort of anti-social behaviour that can occur after closing time.

“The Test Purchasing scheme has been very effective in reducing underage sales—in fact, last night the police carried out nine test purchases in Methil, Leven and Kennoway. All the retailers refused to serve the youngsters.

“I will shortly be joining police on evening visits to licensed premises and their surrounding areas, to get first-hand experience of the issues they face.”

Fife Council’s regulation team leader added, “All members of the Fife Licensing Board have received training on legislation and will always adhere to this legislation when considering licences.

“There are also policies which regulate licensing hours.

“The new licensing system also has five licensing objectives which must be followed by licensees.

“These are preventing crime and disorder, securing public safety, preventing public nuisance, protecting and improving public health and protecting children from harm.

“According to the latest statistics, per head of population over 18, Fife actually has less liquor licences than the national average. Figures show that between 1996 and 2006 the number of licences has decreased.

“Fife has appointed six Licence Standards Officers, more than most other areas, who will support and educate the licensed trade to help promote sensible drinking.

“As we move to the new legislation under the Licensing Scotland Act (2005), there will be an opportunity for people to have an input on how many liquor licences are appropriate for different areas of Fife.”

Mr Rodger, a long-time Levenmouth councillor who represents Methil, Buckhaven and the Wemyss villages, welcomed measures taking place to combat youth disorder and under-age drinking and praised the work done by headmasters at the local high schools and also commended police for their efforts.

“The work being done at both Buckhaven and Kirkland by headteachers Dave McLure and Ronnie Ross is second to none. They are working hand in hand with the area’s chief inspector, Andy Morris, and attainment has risen at both schools in recent months as a result of the joint approach.”

Anti-social behaviour in Levenmouth has reduced significantly since the introduction of the award-winning Street: Live project which lays on inflatable football pitches and Bluelight discos for teenagers.