LOYALISTS in North Antrim have reacted furiously to a leaflet being distributed in pubs in the area warning of illegal drinking.
Headed 'Alcohol Advice', the leaflet decalres that as part of a wider strategy, the PSNI and partners will be taking a "robust approach to underage drinking, on street drinking and drinking at public events."
It adds that officers will not hesitat
e to enforce the legislation and bye-laws and, where possible, confiscate alcohol and report people to the Council, the PPS, or Youth Diversion officer.
The leaflet has been endorsed by Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland, the Associated Clubs of Apprentice Boys of Derry, the Royal Black Institution and the Ulster Bands Association.
But some loyalists view the move as yet another attack on the Protestant community and have asked if the GAA and AOH organisations have been given the same warnings.
"This leaflet has been handed out in licensed premises in Ballymoney and for many customers, it hasn't gone down well.
"When was their last a riot or any disorder by those having a drink and watching a band outside premises?
"We are supposed to live in an equal society, but we don't hear about this being distributed in nationalist areas," one man said.
The leaflet points out that it is illegal to drink alcohol in a designated no-drinking area; drink alcohol on the route of a public procession (this applies six hours prior to the procession taking place); drinking alcohol under-18 in a public place.
It warns that police will also exercise the power to seize alcohol in the possession of anyone under the age of 18 in a public place.
Adults found purchasing or supplying alcohol for use by juveniles may also be liable for prosecution.
