Gardai seize alcohol from teens caught drinking in Kilkenny’s Castle Park

And local gardai have urged parents of Leaving Cert students who may be “putting themselves at risk while consuming large amounts of alcohol and indeed other substances” in an unregulated setting.

A Garda spokesperson said: “Gardaí from Unit C, beat, mountain bike and patrol car in Kilkenny confiscated a quantity of alcohol from groups consuming it in the Castle Park. It is illegal to consume alcohol in public places other than licensed premises.

“A reminder to parents of Leaving Cert students whose kids may put themselves at risk while consuming large amounts of alcohol and indeed other substances in an unregulated setting. Encourage those in your household to consider potential consequences where socialising becomes unsafe. Remind them that if someone in their group requires help to seek it.”

They added: “Well done to our students who’ve put in a tough year, but let’s not ruin it now.”