Liquor trading hours extended for big 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 ANC’s big birthday bash.

The board‚ an entity of the Gauteng Department of Economic Development‚ made the announcement yesterday‚ saying the trading times would be relaxed from Friday to Sunday.

The department said thousands of people would flock to Gauteng during the designated 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 . . . I am satisfied that there is a legislative latitude to relax conditions,” Economic Development MEC Lebohang Maile said.

A weekend pass will be given to deserving liquor traders.

Applications for the relaxation of the times could cost up to R9 000 for the three days. The duration of hours the trader can extend will be dealt with case by case.

SA Leisure‚ Tourism and Hospitality Association president Churchill Mrasi said his organisation did not understand why this should only happen when the ANC was celebrating.

“We are not against it‚ but the question is why is it a selective thing?” – TMG Digital