CHILDREN SELLING BOOTLEG ALCOHOL

UNDERAGE children are being recruited to sell bootlegged alcohol
door-to-door in Northern Ireland, it was claimed today.

Tony Fleck, of the Northern Ireland Drinks Industry Group (NIDIG)
agrees alcohol bootlegging is fast becoming a major criminal operation
in the province.

The NIDIG, which represents the major manufacturers and distributors,
has vowed to give its full backing to the new Customs and Excise
clampdown on alcohol bootlegging.

Last week Customs officers launched a new confidential number - 0800
595000 - and appealed for the public to pass on information on
bootleggers.

"Huge profits are being made, which end up in the coffers of local
gangsters and paramilitaries. Every pound lost to the Treasury is a
pound less for our schools and hospitals," said Mr Fleck.

"In addition, there is a threat to employment in the retail and
manufacturing sectors - both here and in Britain.

"In some areas of Northern Ireland it is reported that underage
children have been recruited to sell bootlegged beer and spirits from
door-to-door - and they are given access to what they are selling.

"We are also concerned that adulterated spirits, masquerading as
reputable brand names, are on offer to the public at great risk to
their health."Mr Fleck said, despite the efforts of Customs officers,
the temptation to trade in smuggled alcohol would remain until the
current rates of excise duty - already among the highest in the EC -
are reduced.

"A pint of beer in France carriers a duty of 5p while here the tax is
35p. Wine in the UK is taxed at pounds 1.52 a litre and in France at
just 3p. There are even higher differentials applying to spirits.

"Unless the Chancellor grasps the nettle and reduces excise duties,
Customs and Excise will continue to face a near impossible task," he
added.