THE VINTNERS’ FEDERATION of Ireland (VFI) is in the planning stages of a pilot initiative for Cork and Kerry which will encourage parents to bring their teenagers to the pub with them.

The organisation said that the scheme aims to promote mature drinking for young adults.

“Up until now alcohol and health campaigns have focused on encouraging young people not to drink with no alternative offered,” it said in a statement.

“It is clear that the vast majority of young people do drink and this campaign aims to promote a sensible and measured approach to alcohol consumption in a controlled environment.”

Although the details are yet to be confirmed, it is envisaged that a series of events will be planned across the two pilot counties where parents and their adult children will attend and enjoy alcohol “in a sensible manner”.

Cork and Kerry were selected as the pilot counties as there was initial interest from publicans in the area for a scheme like this and the VFI are now in the process of signing up participating publicans.

The scheme is expected to be officially launched later this month.

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