“Irresponsible liquor trading and alcohol abuse has a negative impact on society”

There are a total of 429 licensed liquor outlets in Emalahleni. 157 in Vosman, 186 in eMalahleni, 37 in Ga-Nala and 49 in Ogies and Phola combined.

The crowd was in awe when these shocking numbers were read out by Maj Gen Jabulile de Beer.

To make sure liquor outlets comply with their licensing requirements, Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison visited Emalahleni Civic Theatre on Tuesday, August 8.

The consultative meeting was dedicated to liquor associations, forums and traders.

The department wanted to familiarise people with all processes involved in applying for the licence, conditions and the act governing the liquor trading industry.

Cllr Derrick Skhosana stood in for Executive Mayor, Cllr Lindiwe Ntshalintshali. Cllr Skhosana hoped that the meeting will enable people to be responsible drinkers and traders to comply with rules stipulated by the liquor board.

Mr Jacob Phala stood in for the MEC of Community, Safety, Security and Liaison. The department hosted a consultative meeting with liquor associations, forums and traders on Tuesday, August 8.

Maj Gen de Beer mentioned that everyone is interested in the economy’s growth, citizen’s well being and vibrant businesses. However all this must be done responsibly. She mentioned that if 439 liquor outlets are licensed what about those that are operating illegally. Stating that liquor outlets must not outnumber schools and churches.

“Our job as police officials is that everyone feels and is safe. The police alone cannot succeed. The entire city, province and country must be responsible,” said Maj Gen de Beer.

She further explained that people can consume alcohol provided traders obey their license requirements and drinkers should not drive under the influence of alcohol.

“Since its women’s month, allow me to emphasise the abuse of women that happens when men are intoxicated,” said Maj Gen de Beer.

Mr Jacob Phala who stood on behalf of Community, Safety, Security and Liaison said as parents, liquor outlet owners must think long and hard before selling liquor to children that are underage.

“Let us be responsible and I hope this meeting will see us come with solutions for a way forward,” said Phala.

In a media statement sent by Joseph Mabuza Head of Communications at the DCSSL, the document alluded to what the speakers said, that irresponsible liquor trading and alcohol abuse has a negative impact on society because many road fatalities are attributed to intoxicated drivers and pedestrians.

“There has also been a surge in domestic violence related incidents as well as other violent and property related crimes,” the statement further read.

The workshop had presentations from various departments such as road safety and the Mpumalanga Liquor Authority Processes and Compliance.

Attendees were given the chance to ask questions and voice suggestions that they have to ensure a safe and healthy community.

Overall the attendees of the workshop were encouraged to play their part in ensuring that their employees comply with the law, and roles of all interested parties with regard to processing and granting of trading licenses.

The DCSSL believes the most effective way to address alcohol abuse is through targeted interventions, such as the responsible trader programmes which focuses on those drinking patterns that are associated with harm caused by alcohol abuse.

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