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- 144 liquor dealers were investigated between March 27 and September 11.
- A total of 42 licenses were suspended, 10 applications were rejected and two are still pending.
- 54 cases were placed on the Liquor Licensing Court case list.
The Western Cape Liquor Authority suspended a total of 42 liquor licenses for contravening the regulations of the National Disaster Management Act during various levels of lockdown, Western Cape Community Security MEC Albert Fritz said on Monday.
This after 144 liquor dealers were investigated between March 27 and September 11.
Of the 42 suspensions, one license was revoked and 35 suspensions were lifted by the liquor authority. In addition, one suspension was lifted in the Superior Court and another as part of the internal proceedings of the Court of Appeals, he said.
Four restitution hearings are pending.
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Fritz said in a statement that he welcomed the “consistent efforts of the alcoholic beverage authority to reduce alcohol-related harm. [sic] in the province while noting the importance of moving forward and reopening the economy. “
Fifty-four issues were placed on the Liquor Licensing Court case register, Fritz said. A total of 42 licenses were suspended, 10 applications were rejected and two are still pending.
“In recent months, many licensed liquor dealers, including bars and restaurants, have been hit hard by restrictions on the sale and transportation of alcohol. They have had to innovate their businesses to comply with the restrictions and ensure safety. and the welfare of the public.
“As we move forward and ensure the economy reopens, let’s get out there, support local businesses, get back to work, and grow our economy. Let’s do it all safely.”
