ALAC Urges Public And Communities To Have Their Voice Heard On New Zealand’s Liquor Laws

PRESS RELEASE
APRIL 16 2009
The Alcohol Advisory Council (ALAC) is urging communities and members of the public to take the opportunity to have their say on the future shape of New Zealand’s alcohol laws.

ALAC Chief Executive Officer Gerard Vaughan said submissions on the Sale and Supply of Liquor and Liquor Enforcement Bill currently before Parliament close on Thursday April 23.

“ALAC has for some time been hearing from communities all around New Zealand who are frustrated by their inability to have input into decisions on alcohol affecting their neighbourhoods. This bill is the first of two opportunities for the public to have their say,” he said.

The Bill proposes giving local authorities more powers on liquor licensing, tighter regulations for retail outlets, and tougher penalties for selling or supplying alcohol to minors. The Bill also includes a zero-alcohol limit for drivers under 20 without a full licence. For information on making submissions go to http://www.parliament.nz/en-NZ/SC/SubmCalled/0/3/4/49SCJEsaleandsupplyofliquo200904231-Sale-and-Supply-of-Liquor-and.htm

Mr Vaughan said a second opportunity to influence New Zealand’s alcohol licensing laws would arise later this year with the release of a discussion paper for consultation by the Law Commission. The Law Commission is undertaking a full review of New Zealand’s liquor legislation.

“This is the first major review of our Sale of Liquor Act and associated alcohol policy since 1989 and is an exciting opportunity to influence the future of alcohol laws.”

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