Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies has this past week tabled proposals that will make most reach for the liquor cabinet.
In another desperate attempt to lower alcohol related accidents, the National Liqour Policy that was gazzeted this week proposes that henceforth the manufacturers, distributors and owners of taverns, pubs and restaurants will be held liable should a person who is under the influence commit a crime.
It will also be an offence to sell alcohol to a person who is already intoxicated. Another controversial proposal in the policy is the legal age of drinking should be raised from 18 to 21.
The policy also wants liqour outlets not within 500m of schools, places of worship, rehabilitation centres, residential areas and public places and will prohibit liquor licenses being issued to petrol stations or the opening of liquor stores close to petrol stations.
According to a local pub owner, who prefers not to have his or his establishment’s name mentioned, the policy is flawed.
“How in heavens name must I or the poor clerk in the liquor store know someone is drunk,” he wanted to know in disbelief.
“Some guys can have enough drinks to put them over the legal limit yet they can hold their liquor so well that you will not notice,” he continued.
“The hiking of the legal drinking age will also negatively impact our business since young adults, and I stress adults, make out a substantial part of our clientele,” he said.
“Like the smoking laws and the new proposed speed limits, this once again shows a government that is incapable of thinking things through,” he concluded.
Do you think this will help? Leave your comment in the comment box below.
Want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us an SMS/ WhatsApp message with your name and cellphone number to 079 414 6709.
Familiarise yourself with our WhatsApp service disclaimer.
Do you perhaps have more information pertaining to this story? Email us at roodepoortrecord@caxton.co.za (remember to include your contact details) or phone us on 011 955 1130.
For free daily local news on the West Rand, also visit our sister newspaper websites Randfontein Herald, Krugersdorp News and Get It Joburg West Magazine
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages to let your voice be heard!
