FACTSHEET

April 29, 2010

Ministry of Housing and Social Development

 

ENHANCED LIQUOR REGULATIONS IMPROVE PUBLIC SAFETY

 

VICTORIA – Legislative amendments have been made to the Liquor Control and Licensing Act to enhance public safety and streamline regulation of the liquor hospitality industry.

           

Amendments to the act will strengthen public safety by enabling the Province to:

 

·         Suspend a licence for up to 14 days without a hearing where there is a serious risk to public safety.

·         Conduct detailed background checks on anyone involved in running a licensed establishment.

·         Better control who may obtain a special occasion licence and where the event is held, and hold organizations accountable for enforcement penalties, even after the event is over.

·         Hire underage youth to assess whether licensees or staff serve or sell liquor to minors.

 

Other changes to the Act promote streamlining and good governance including:

 

·         Modernizing trade practice relationships between liquor manufacturers and licensees.

·         Allowing increased financial relationships between liquor manufacturers and bar, restaurant and private liquor retailers.

·         Allowing licensees to pre-mix drinks.

·         Allowing all licensees to support and sponsor community activities and events.

 

A comprehensive list of the amendments made to the Liquor Control and Licensing Act is available at the Liquor Control and Licensing Branch’s website at http://www.hsd.gov.bc.ca/lclb/.

 

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Media Contact:

Seumas Gordon Media Relations Officer Ministry of Housing and Social Development 250 387-6490

 

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