Public invited to join new District Licensing Committee

Hastings residents are being invited to apply for a position on the new District Licensing Committee (DLC).

The new committee will be responsible for issuing all alcohol licenses in the district and will comprise 3 people, two who will come from the District Licensing Committee list and a chairperson. Hastings District Council is eager to attract people from the wider community to fill the positions on the list but applicants must be able to show they have expertise and experience in liquor licensing issues.

The changes come as part of the Alcohol Reform Bill which was passed into law in December 2012. Key features of the new legislation include new criteria for alcohol control bylaws (liquor bans), a move from national to local decision making with the introduction of DLCs and expanded licence criteria and grounds for objection.

Group Manager Planning and Regulatory John O’Shaughnessy says “This is a chance for members of the public who have the relevant experience to join in the decision making process on how alcohol is sold in the district and how licenses are granted.”

“Changes will come into force later this year regarding the sale of alcohol and licensing of premises and becoming part of the committee will give those people a chance to guide the introduction of the new legislation.”

While applicants must be able to show they have experience that is relevant to alcohol licensing, they must not have any direct interest in the alcohol industry or an alcohol retail business. Training will be given to the successful applicants

For more information on whether you could be the ideal person to become a member of the committee or you know someone who could be a candidate go to: http://www.hastingsdc.govt.nz/current-job-vacancies

Expressions of interest close on 19th July 2013.
ends

© Scoop Media