Zero tolerance for non-compliance says Beer Association of South Africa 

This is and has been a sector that supports one millions of livelihoods in Mpumalanga and South Africa as a whole. On May 26, the government announced that retailers could open and recommence the sale of alcohol for at-home consumption, but it was short-lived.

READ: Tavern owners fight for survival

Government said shortly afterwards that the change in tack had caused a spike in alcohol-related harm and injury, which was placing a burden on hospitals at a time when the country seemed to be heading towards peak infections. And so, sales were banned for a second time on July 12 only for the ban to be lifted on level 2. Following recent reports of alcohol outlets breaching the level 2 lockdown regulations, the Beer Association of South Africa (BASA) has committed itself to identifying establishments found breaking the law and cutting off their supply. BASA said it is relieved that the sale of alcohol has resumed under alert level 2.

“We can assure customers that we are ready to serve them under the strictest safety conditions, taking into account social distancing and health protocols,” the association’s CEO, Patricia Pillay said.

ALSO READ: Msogwaba Clinic now operate 24 hours

Most outlets in Mpumalanga which serve or sell alcohol are reportedly complying with the lockdown regulations, however, there are reports of businesses that are selling and serving it outside of the legal trading hours.

There are also reports of outlets not adhering to social distancing protocols and thereby putting the health and safety of their customers at risk. Locals in most communities in the province drink alcohol moderately and safely without any adverse impact on the public health system.

But, unfortunately, there are too many people who drink in excess and endanger people’s lives. Communities need to find a way of curbing this destructive cycle of alcohol abuse. It is therefore critical that all role players recognise the importance of responsible and moderate alcohol consumption during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.

Locals are encouraged  by BASA to report all incidents of criminality linked to the sale and consumption of alcohol during the lockdown by calling the toll-free hotline (0800-014-858) that has been set up by the industry and administered by the Consumer Goods Council of South Africa.

The hotline has received numerous calls on businesses contravening the regulations, which have been referred to the SAPS and the national and provincial liquor authorities.