Osi’s Place outcome a warning to all traders
The liquor licence of Osi’s Place has been revoked with immediate effect.
During a hearing this morning, the Liquor Licencing Tribunal revoked the licence and further ordered that the establishment’s owner may not apply for a licence for a five-year period.
Alan Winde, Minister of Economic Opportunities, said the decision sent a clear message to traders.
“Today is not a happy day for us. While we welcome the ruling, it will not bring back the lives lost in this tragic case and a trader, through his own actions, is no longer able to operate and create jobs.
“Let this be a lesson to all liquor licence holders. We will not tolerate irresponsible trading. If you break the law; we will shut you down.”
With the regard to the events of 28 June 2015, the Western Cape’s Liquor Authority Liquor Licencing Tribunal had to consider whether the trader had contravened his licence conditions, on the following points:
- Failing to exercise proper control over the premises by
- Allowing the premises to be overcrowded
- Failure to ensure that clients leave the premises orderly
- That the owner had allowed persons under the age of 18 to be on the premises/he had allowed minors to consume liquor on the premises
The tribunal found that the trader did not have “any interest in, or control over, the licenced premises”.
Minister Winde commended the Western Cape Liquor Authority for their efforts to raise awareness around the responsible trading and consumption of alcohol.
“Since the start of this year, the Western Cape Liquor Authority has revoked five liquor licences and issued over R100 000 worth of fines. The Authority also hosts numerous awareness sessions with residents and traders. In 2014/15, around 3000 inspections were conducted and in this financial year, over 4000 inspections will be conducted across the province.”
Shawn Willemse, Head of the Liquor Authority’s Compliance and Enforcement unit said: “Liquor enforcement operations are planned throughout the province in the lead up to the festive season. During these operations inspectors in conjunction with SAPS and municipal law enforcement will do everything in its power to ensure compliance with the provisions of the Western Cape Liquor Act.”
This process only dealt with issue of the liquor licence. Any other legal or administrative processes will be dealt with by the relevant authorities.
For media queries, kindly contact:
Bronwynne Jooste
Tel: 021 483 3550
Cell: 060 970 4301
Email: bronwynne.jooste@westerncape.gov.za
