Trading times for liquor extended for ANC bash
DRINKING will go into extra time at the Orlando Stadium after the Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) said it would extend trading hours for the African National Congress’ (ANC) big birthday bash.
The board‚ an entity of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development‚ made the announcement yest saying the trading times will be relaxed from January 6 to 8.
The department said thousands of people would flock to Gauteng during the weekend to celebrate the 105th anniversary of the ANC.
It said the event was expected to contribute positively to the economy of the province‚ especially in the areas of tourism and hospitality.
“Having consulted with the GLB‚ more particularly my interaction with the chairperson of the liquor authority‚ I am satisfied that there is a legislative latitude to‚ albeit on a temporary basis‚ relax conditions and the trading regime applicable to all licensed bona fide in-house liquor traders‚ in good standing with the liquor board‚ during the designated days‚” economic development MEC Lebohang Maile said in the statement.
A weekend pass will be given deserving liquor traders.
“Applicants for the weekend pass will be required to provide to the GLB an undertaking that the premises shall be gun-free and that the noise levels generated from the premises will not cause unacceptable disturbance or nuisance to neighbours‚” the department said.
Applications for the relaxation of the times will be done at the board’s offices and could cost up to R9 000 for the three days. The duration of hours that the liquor trader can extend will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis.
Churchill Mrasi‚ president of the SA Leisure‚ Tourism and Hospitality Association‚ which represents tavern owners‚ said the organisation had not been formally informed on the board’s decision.
“We are not against the move. What we do not understand is why it should only happen when the ANC is celebrating. It would be better if it was open for any other organisation‚” Mrasi said. — TMG Digital to