‘Wine industry is more than a drink’ – Vinpro contests

THE court case contesting the government's approach to the liquor ban under the Disaster Management Act is under way in the Western Cape High Court before a full bench of judges.

Non-profit company Vinpro, which represents around 2 600 local wine producers, said the alcohol industry had been affected by liquor sale restrictions over the past 17 months.

The high court matter has been set down until August 26, during which Vinpro and industry partners including South African Breweries (SAB) said they would be arguing three particular points, including Vinpro's structure of government argument, an interim application asking to take evidence regarding the third wave into account, as well as the issue of mootness since the ban has been partially lifted.

Vinpro spokesperson Wanda Augustyn said the matter continues.

“We are in the midst of litigation and will not issue a statement.

“The court hearing will continue today and we will issue a statement when judgment is delivered,” said Augustyn.

Vinpro managing director Rico Basson said they had argued that liquor restrictions should be done with reference to provincial circumstances.

“Since the start of this pandemic we have argued that the provinces, not national government, should decide whether or not to impose liquor restrictions and should do so with reference to provincial circumstances, including the need to preserve capacity in trauma units in hospitals in the province,” said Basson.

The joint court application, which was launched in January during the second wave, also seeks “to include evidence for the way in which the blanket liquor ban missed its purpose during the third wave”.

“This industry has built a strong brand reputation as a unique asset for the country.

“The South African wine industry is more than a drink, it's a livelihood. And it is our responsibility to make sure we save this industry for future generations,” said Basson.

The matter continues.