WCLA Update: WCLA issues R1 731 220 in fines

The Minister of Community Safety, Albert Fritz, notes that between 27 March 2020 and 25 September 2020, the Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) has issued R1 731 220 in fines and conducted 168 investigations into liquor vendors who have contravened the National Disaster Risk Management Act’s Regulations. Of the 168 investigations, 46 liquor licenses were suspended.

Minister Fritz commends the WCLA on their consistent efforts in reducing alcohol related harms and calls on residents to report liquor vendors who contravened the Regulations.

The WCLA’s enforcement investigations and subsequent referral of these matters to the Liquor Licensing Tribunal (LLT), is as follows:

• 69 section 71 matters were placed on the LLT case roll;
• 46 licences suspended;
• 14 applications dismissed; and
• 9 applications pending.

Of the 46 licences that were suspended, 44 section 71(4) return hearings and a further section 20 considerations on 13 of these matters took place, of which:

• One licence was revoked after finalisation of a section 20 consideration, while 41 suspensions were lifted by the LLT;
• Two suspensions were lifted, one in the Western Cape High Court and one as part of an internal Appeal Tribunal proceedings; and
• Two return hearings are pending.

Minister Fritz said, “Fifty-eight Covid-19 related section 20 and section 62(4) matters were forwarded to the LLT of which one licence was revoked, four applications dismissed while in two matters the licensee was issued with stricter conditions. One licence was suspended. In 13 matters, fines to the amount of R1 731 220 were issued, of which an amount of R891 220 was suspended for a period of 24 months on condition that the licence holder does not contravene the Western Cape Liquor Act and licence conditions again during this period. Stricter conditions were also issued in all nine cases. Thirty-seven matters are pending.”

Minister Fritz continued, “I urge members of the public who are aware of any alcohol related contraventions to immediately report such to SAPS. Any persons wanting to lodge a complaint or report a contravention of the Regulations can also contact the WCLA on 021 204 9805.”

Attention broadcasters, please see English audio clip: https://clyp.it/ctuasou5