Special liquor dispensation for Gauteng
Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Agriculture, Environment, and Rural Development Lebogang Maile has welcomed the decision by the Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) to relax the liquor trading times for licensed in-house liquor traders during the weekend of 6 to 8 January 2017.
According to the department, thousands of people will flock to Gauteng over the weekend to celebrate the 105th anniversary of the ANC.
The department says the event is expected to contribute positively to the provincial economy, especially in the areas of tourism and hospitality.
"Having consulted with the GLB, more particularly my interaction with the chairperson of the Liquor Authority, I am satisfied that there is legislative latitude to, albeit on a temporary basis, relax conditions and the trading regime applicable to all licensed 'bona fide' in-house liquor traders, in good standing with the Liquor Board, during the designated days," says MEC Maile.
Maile says the 'weekend-pass' will be granted only to deserving liquor traders, to be determined by the GLB on a case-by-case basis.
All qualifying liquor traders should, before being granted the 'weekend pass', demonstrate commitment to partnering with relevant law enforcement agencies to ensure the safety of patrons and tourists.
Applicants for the 'weekend pass' will be required to provide the GLB with an undertaking that the premises shall be gun-free and that the noise levels generated from the premises will not cause unacceptable disturbance or nuisance to neighbours.
It will be a further requirement that all qualifying licensees provide confirmation of appointed managers who would be answerable to the GLB as well as providing sufficient proof that the said premises comply with the basic safety and evacuation measures as prescribed for in the Gauteng Liquor Act or applicable municipal by-laws.