Parties for minors to be licensed

A special licence is to start being issued to entertainment establishments for the organisation of parties and events tailored to minors, Social Solidarity Minister Dolores Cristina announced.

Under-16s would be able to enjoy themselves in an alcohol-free environment, she said. Such events have been organised on a sporadic basis by Sedqa.

Speaking during the opening of new premises for Sedqa, the government agency against drugs and alcohol abuse, Ms Cristina said a legal notice giving information about this licence is due to be published shortly.

Foundation for Social Welfare Services chief executive Joe Gerada hailed this announcement, saying young people today expected quality entertainment and it was therefore imperative to provide it in an environment free from alcohol.

The new Seqda premises in Sta Venera bring together a number of community and prevention services. Mr Gerada said this centralisation translated into a more complete and efficient service.