Local liquor establishments to face larger fines and suspensions if selling liquor to minors

With the local RCMP expressing concern last week over the increasing numbers of young people being collected for being drunk in public, it’s a timely message that is being sent by the Provincial government to the provinces establishments that sell liquor.

While its most likely those young people that are involved in under age drinking are probably engaging in the activity at house parties, there is still a number that may be finding their way into the bars and clubs of the city. It's those youngsters and those that supply them with liquor that the Province is trying to reach with new regulations in effect now.

Solicitor General John Les has announced increases in both the suspensions and monetary value of fines for those establishments convicted of selling liquor to minors.

The minimum amount of time a business will lose its licence will be increased to ten days with a minimum fine rising to 7500 dollars.


The Daily news had the details on the changes in Wednesday’s paper.

Bars face tough underage fines
The Daily News
Wednesday, February 21, 2007
Page five

Bar, restaurant and private liquor store owners that sell liquor to minors will face tougher penalties.

“When minors drink alcohol, there can be tragic consequences, such as sexual assaults, car crashes, street fighting and alcohol poisoning,” said Solicitor General John Les. “That’s why restricting access to liquor for minors is a key public safety priority.”

Although regular use of alcohol by B.C. students is decreasing, binge drinking is increasing. A study conducted by the McCreary Centre Society shows 20 per cent of B.C. teens who drink report frequent binge drinking. Binge drinking is associated with risks such as alcohol poisoning and car crashes.

Selling liquor to minors and allowing minors to enter licenced establishments are two of the most common infractions by liquor licensees. The minimum penalty for selling liquor to minors will be increasing to a 10-day licence suspension or a $7,500 fine, compared to the previous four days or $5,000. The minimum penalty for bars who allow minors on the premises will be increased to a four-day licence suspension or $5,000 fine, compared to a previous one-day licence suspension or $1,000 fine.