The Restaurant Association of Ireland launches new online training initiative

• The New Responsible Serving of Alcohol Online Training Programme encourages Restaurants to develop policies and procedures in serving alcohol to minimise the risk of alcohol related harm.

• Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI) are promoting this valuable training initiative to their members.

‘RSA Online’ is approved by the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland and legal experts. It is a 90 minute online (e-learning) course consisting of an interactive learning component, examination and certification. It is a cost effective, time effective training solution which provides staff with a certificate endorsed by Failte Ireland and is supported by the VFI, LVA IHF and RAI.
Speaking at the launch at Gallagher’s Boxty House in Temple Bar, Mary Kennedy, owner of Alcohol.ie and developer of the RSA Programme said; “Bartenders and servers have a tough job. Pleasing the customer and obeying the law can be challenging. Customer safety, protection of minors and moderate consumption of alcohol are key elements of responsible serving and its importance to our country’s health welfare is crucial. It is of general view within the industry that RSA training should be a mandatory requirement for those involved in the sale and service of alcohol. Initial dialogue with the Department of Health has been good and we would urge the Department of Health to take a look at how this programme can be implemented for the benefit of the Irish Hospitality and Tourism sectors”
Chief Executive of the Restaurant Association of Ireland Adrian Cummins commented;
‘The Responsible Serving of Alcohol Programme (RSA) blends good business sense with an astute guide to legal responsibilities. It is critical that all those serving alcohol understand its effects so that they know when people are running into trouble and can head off problems before they happen. An educational course that offers a good grounding in the key elements of this is invaluable. Both Irish consumers and tourists should be able to enjoy a drink safe in the knowledge they are being served by a fully qualified member of staff.

Dr Stephen Stewart, Consultant Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Director of the Centre for Liver Disease, Mater Hospital speaking at the launch also commented;
“Alcohol is a unique commodity and must be treated with respect and some caution. An educational course that offers a good grounding in the key elements of this is invaluable and should, in my view, be a pre-requisite in the training of bar staff. With raised awareness of the potential problems associated with alcohol among those that serve it we move closer to a time when we as a nation can develop a more healthy relationship with alcohol, limit harms and enjoy its consumption in moderation or at least with a better understanding of potential risks.”

ENDS
For more information or interview opportunities:
Mary Kennedy/ Louisa Connolly – 086 1718641/ 01 687 5755