WCLA to implement new licence renewal process

The Western Cape Liquor Authority (WCLA) is implementing automatic and non-automatic licence renewals for 2023.

In a statement, the WCLA says licence holders who are non-compliant will have to apply to renew their licence, while compliant licence holders can have their renewals done automatically.

The WCLA says the list of non-compliant licences will be published and members of the public will have an opportunity to comment on these renewal applications.

The Western Cape’s Police Oversight and Community Safety MEC, Reagen Allen says the WCLA is in a position to regulate liquor more effectively and fairly in the public interest.

“This differentiated approach to liquor licence renewals rewards good behaviour by allowing compliant licensees to renew their licence automatically, while introducing adverse consequences for errant behaviour. A liquor licence is granted as a concession to trade alcohol, provided the licence is operated in a manner that is mindful of the public interest. I am encouraged that the WCLA is innovating in this way.”

CEO of the Western Cape Liquor Authority, Simion George, emphasised the importance of the WCLA

“Alcohol is a regulated substance due to the significant harms associated with its availability and use. Regulation ensures that public interest is considered and prioritised to reduce the impact of alcohol on communities, while enabling sustainable business opportunities. In South Africa, 56% of transport related deaths, and 54% of homicides and violence cases are linked to high levels of alcohol. The availability and use of alcohol is a risk factor enabling gender-based violence, sexual violence and other forms of violence leading to injury, trauma or death.”

Those licensees who do not qualify for automatic licence renewal will be notified by 31 July, ahead of the annual renewal period. MEC Allen added that they will then be able to submit a renewal application for the consideration of the Liquor Licensing Tribunal.

 

PICTURE: WCLA's logo

Done By: Mitchum George