MEC puts brakes on liquor licence applications

Phosa shared the statistics with the members of the provincial legislature when tabling her 2013/14 budget presentation held in Mbombela this week.

"In ensuring compliance to applicable liquor laws, we have conducted 657 inspections of liquor premises, processed 758 liquor licence applications and only issued 71 new licences," she said.

She said the department had a responsibility to regulate and govern business operations in the province.

"As a caring government, in partnership with various stakeholders such as the National Liquor Authority, the Department of Social Development, the South African Police Service and other role players in the liquor industry, we continue to raise awareness about the dangers of irresponsible consumption of alcohol," said Phosa.

Department spokesman Mohau Ramodibe explained that the majority of rejected applications were as a result of outlets being situated close to schools or places of worship.

"We will not tolerate alcohol close to children or churches, and we must make sure that successful applicants have met all the required criteria and will use their liquor licenses responsibly.

"Those who do not adhere do not have the right nor the responsibility to sell alcohol and will therefore not be granted licences," he said.

MEC Phosa added that the regulation of the liquor industry in the province would be further strengthened through the establishment of the Mpumalanga Liquor Authority in terms of the Mpumalanga Liquor Licensing Act of 2006.

"We are delighted to announce that we have allocated an amount of R6.6 million for this purpose, and this will ensure full adherence to the Act. We will continue to work with the South African Police Service in conducting liquor inspections around the province to curb illegal trade of liquor," she said.

Phosa said the department would continue to raise awareness about the dangers of irresponsible consumption of alcohol.