WCLA Update: Minister Fritz continues to call on residents to drink responsibly

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, reiterates his call for residents in the province to drink responsibly, should they wish to do so. Minister Fritz further notes the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) has, between 27 March and 21 August, conducted 125 investigations into contraventions of the National Disaster Risk Management Regulations.

Of the 125 investigations which have taken place, 49 section 71 matters were placed on the Liquor Licensing Tribunal’s (LLT) case roll of which:

• 38 liquor licences were suspended;
• 10 liquor license applications were dismissed; and
• One liquor license application is pending.

Minister Fritz said, “I wish to reiterate my call for residents in the province to drink responsibly should they wish to do so. We know that there are numerous harms associated with alcohol such as increased violent behaviour, drink driving, among others. Residents, who are over the age of 18, may legally drink but have a responsibility to not abuse or misuse alcohol.”

Minister Fritz continued, “I further wish to commend the WCLA on the significant role that they play in preventing alcohol related harms by investigating those establishments which pose a threat to the health, wellbeing or safety of the public.”

Minister Fritz further continued, “The licenses were suspended in terms of section 71 of the Western Cape Liquor Act (the Act) which means that the WCLA may suspend a license on an interim and urgent basis where there is an imminent threat to the health, wellbeing or safety of the public. Moving forward, those liquor license holders who remain non-compliant in terms of section 20 of the Act will be investigated and may eligible for a fine of up to R115 000 or have their license revoked.”

Of the 38 licences that were suspended, 35 section 71(4) return hearings as well as further 13 Section 20 considerations took place, of which:

• One licence was revoked after finalisation of a section 20 consideration;
• 32 suspensions were lifted by the LLT;
• Two suspensions were lifted by other means which includes one in the Western Cape High Court and one as part of internal Appeal Tribunal proceeding; and
• Three return hearings are pending.

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