Under-Age Sales

Congress is concerned about the problems facing shop workers over under-age sales. It is shop workers who bear the brunt of the anger and actions of those refused a sale. Shop workers should have respect and dignity at work and a safe working environment free from abuse and potential violence. Congress is further concerned that if age-related products are mistakenly sold to under-age customers it is the shop worker who can face both disciplinary action by their employer and potential criminal prosecution. Congress believes actions to tackle the problems facing shop workers over age-related sales are clearly necessary and calls on the ICTU to lobby the Northern Ireland Executive and the Republic of Ireland's Coalition Government to: Launch a major publicity campaign to ensure that shoppers are made aware of current legislation so limiting any potential flashpoints for abuse and threats against shop workers Change the legislation on the purchase of age- restricted products to put the responsibility on the purchaser and not the general assistant on checkouts Ensure that any prosecutions are pursued with the employer and not the shop worker Investigate the procedure and validity of undercover stings by law enforcing agencies and employers as part of an overall examination of enforcement of Under-Age Sales Legislation.