Some Liquor Outlets Slow Learners Says ALAC

PRESS RELEASE
15 MARCH 2007

The Alcohol Advisory Council (ALAC) is backing concerns expressed by the Liquor Licensing Authority (LLA) at the high number of liquor outlets caught selling alcohol to minors.

In a just released decision, the Authority says controlled purchase operations (CPOs) were now a well- tried mechanism to ensure that licensees and managers were aware of their responsibilities and obligations.

However, it notes “the failure rate when they are put to the test is alarmingly high”.

It goes on to say “the media publicity which ensues after exercises of this sort has been put before the Authority should sound warning bells to all who are involved in the sale and supply of liquor, but regrettably the message is still not getting through”.

ALAC’s Chief Executive Officer Gerard Vaughan stated, “it is certainly a concern that some licensees are not heeding the warning not to sell liquor to minors. The message is simple: No ID, No Sale, No exceptions.”

Mr Vaughan congratulated the enforcement agencies on taking the CPOs and LLA for publicly raising its concerns.

He asked whether it was time to begin targeting repeat offenders and see a few licenses being cancelled to send a clear message to the industry.

The case before the authority followed a CPO around the Whangaparaoa Peninsula on Wednesday 24 January 2007.

A male volunteer, at the time aged 16 years and three months, was requested by the Police to enter various licensed premises and attempt to purchase liquor.

The volunteer was able to purchase liquor in every instance. In none of the premises identified in these applications was he challenged as to his age, nor was he required to provide any form of identification.

The outlets involved did not dispute the facts are established and agreed to accept imposition of periods of suspension by consent, without the requirement to appear before the Authority at a public hearing.

The four off-licences involved have had their licence suspended for periods ranging from 24 hours to three days. The two general managers had their certificates suspended for a month.

Ends

© Scoop Media