‘National Day. Enjoy your day. Stay Safe.’ is the message from the Government to young people as they embark on an awareness campaign highlighting the risks of excessive drinking.

Acknowledging that most young people are responsible and will join in the spirit of the day in a civic manner, the Government have expressed concern towards some youngsters who may unintentionally put themselves at risk when they drink alcohol and feel it is crucial that young people are given the facts about drinking and its effects.

They feel that people under the age of 18 need to know what drinking does to their body and appearance as well as how to avoid peer pressure and stay safe. The Care Agency, working in partnership with the Royal Gibraltar Police and the Department of Education have developed an awareness campaign, comprising posters, a television advert warning of the dangers of excessive drinking, and have delivered a series of talks to pupils at both comprehensive schools during the week leading up to National Week.

The Royal Gibraltar Police will also be visiting all retailers open on National Day, to remind them of their responsibilities in respect of the sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 18.

Samantha Sacramento, Minister for Equality & Social Services, whose responsibility includes drug and alcohol rehabilitation and awareness said, ‘We have received reports and concerns of excessive drinking by young people on National Day in the past few years, particularly since early in the morning. Invariably for many it means that they will be suffering the consequences by early afternoon and this will have an impact on their families. We want everyone to enjoy National Day which is such a significant day in our calendar and while of course everyone should have a good time, we want people, especially youngsters, to stay safe and not expose themselves to unnecessary risks.’