The North West Provincial Government has embarked on a process of finalising a Provincial Liquor Policy that will inform a Provincial Liquor Bill aligned to the National Liquor Act 59 of 2003.
The draft policy was presented for deliberations during the Executive Council (Exco) meeting held in Mahikeng earlier in the week. The proposed policy which was drafted after wide consultation with various stakeholders was after consideration deferred for further refinement to address the concerns of Exco about the contribution of alcohol towards crime, the scourge of rape, road accidents and about taverns and shebeens that are operating until the early hours of the morning denying residents peaceful sleep.
“The proposed policy should close identified loopholes for effective law enforcement and also respond to concerns of our communities about taverns that are operating near schools, churches and inconsiderate noise levels that emanate from these establishments that in some instances disturb entire neighbourhoods,” emphasised Premier Thandi Modise.
Exco is resolute that the economic and social policy to be adopted should balance the broader benefits and costs of daily activities as affected by the production and retail of liquor beverages in the province. It also seeks arrive at an appropriate mix of enterprise and regulation to balance the interest of all participants in the liquor trade and the society as a whole.
Enquiries:
Lesiba Moses Kgwele, spokesperson
Tel: 018 388 3705
Cell: 083 629 1987
Fax: 018 388 3157
E-mail : LKgwele@gmail.com