HUTT CITY COUNCIL NEWS RELEASE
19 JUNE 2013

Local Alcohol Policy – make a difference!

Hutt City Council is proposing to make a Hutt City Local Alcohol Policy (LAP) to give communities more of a say around the sale and supply of alcohol. Communities have until 4pm 1 July to submit their feedback.

The Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012 (SSAA) allows local authorities to create a LAP and put in place a new system of control that aims to ensure that alcohol is consumed safely and responsibly.
‘’We now encourage local communities to have their say on the LAP by either submitting their feedback or by choosing to speak to their submission,’’ says Mayor Ray Wallace.
‘’It’s important that we receive your feedback, this will allow the council to better regulate off and on licenses, one-way door restrictions, and other licensing matters outlined in the draft LAP.’’

‘’Councils now have the opportunity to make a change in their local communities and let the people be heard through LAP’s. Communities are able to restrict or extend trading hours of premises, limit the location and density of licences or impose conditions on licensed premise,’’ he adds.

Hutt Valley Police Area Commander Mike Hill says, "We know that alcohol misuse is a key driver of crime. Lack of alcohol control leads to good people doing things which range from just silly through to criminal. It’s not just about offenders though, many of our victims are affected by alcohol. We recognise that many in our community drink responsibly, so we are trying to balance out the needs of the many with those who are vulnerable and need protection."

Copies of the LAP are available from the council administration building, 30 Laings Road, local libraries and on the council website www.huttcity.govt.nz/haveyoursay

ENDS

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