Minister Fritz calls on residents to drink responsibly over the long weekend

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, notes that the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) has conducted 162 investigations into liquor vendors who have contravened the Disaster Risk Management Act’s Regulations. Of the 162 investigations, 46 licenses were suspended.  

Minister Fritz has commended the WCLA on their consistent efforts to reduce alcohol related harms and urges residents to drink responsibly, should they wish to do so, over the long weekend.

Between 27 March 2020 and 18 September 2020, the WCLA has investigated 162 complaints, of which 61 section 71 matters were placed on the Liquor Licensing Tribunal (LLT) case roll. In total:

• 46 licences were suspended;
• 11 applications were dismissed; and
• 4 applications are pending.

Of the 46 licences that were suspended, 43 section 71(4) return hearings and 13 section 20 considerations on these matters took place, of which:

• One licence was revoked after finalisation of a section 20 consideration, while 39 suspensions were lifted by the LLT;
• Two suspensions were lifted, one in the Western Cape High Court and one as part of an internal Appeal Tribunal proceeding; and
• Three return hearings are pending.

Minister Fritz said, “I urge residents to drink responsibly should they wish to do so over the long weekend. We know that over long weekends there are increases in accidents related to or caused by alcohol. Over the long weekend, roadblocks will be conducted to ensure that our roads are safe to use.”

Minister Fritz added, “It should be noted that my Department’s proposed amendments to the Western Cape Liquor Act are underway. These amendments aim to reduce alcohol related harms and are currently on route to the Western Cape Government’s legal services.  Thereafter, it will be referred to provincial Treasury and to myself in my capacity as the provincial Minister of Community Safety.”

Useful links

Attention broadcasters, please see English audio clip: https://clyp.it/t3zpj0ox

Proposed amendment to the WCLA: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/gc-news/206/55032