WCLA will continue to ensure compliance with liquor regulations

Minister Fritz: WC Liquor Authority will continue to ensure compliance with liquor regulations

The Western Cape Minister of Community of Safety, Albert Fritz, notes the regulations outlined by the Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, stating that liquor may be sold by licensed premises during alert level three of the lockdown.

It was stated that licensed premises may sell liquor from Monday to Thursday, excluding Friday to Sunday and public holidays. Liquor may only be sold between 9:00 – 17:00 and may not be consumed on premises. 

Minister Fritz said, “Through the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA), my Department will continue to enforce the relevant regulations, with a particular focus on taverns. We know that in our most vulnerable communities, taverns, particularly those which operate unlicensed, play a significant role in perpetuating alcohol related harms which include gender based violence.”

Minister Fritz added, “The WCLA will continue to work closely with SAPS to report unlicensed premises and ensure the necessary action is taken against them which includes paying an admission of guilt fine and the removal of their liquor stock. With regards to licensed taverns, the WCLA will continue to conduct its investigations into licensed premises which do not comply with the regulations and may issue a fine of up to R115 000 or revoke the license of those who do not comply, subject to an investigation.”

For further clarity on the conditions of lockdown, please see the following FAQs: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/department-of-health/frequently-asked-questions

Please see English audio clip here: https://clyp.it/s0qgv1vb