FREDERICTON (GNB) –The provincial government has introduced amendments to the Liquor Control Act to reduce barriers, modernize administrative processes and maximize growth opportunities for the hospitality industry.
The changes would allow liquor sales with food takeout or delivery, allow a licensee to close a partly consumed bottle of wine purchased in the establishment and allow a patron to carry that previously opened bottle home.
“We acted to allow the sale of liquor with takeout and delivery food orders because of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Justice and Public Safety Minister Hugh J. Flemming. “These amendments would allow that to continue once the supporting regulations are in place. They will contribute to the government’s key priority of fostering an energized private sector while maintaining the safety of the public as we move to help our communities and our businesses recover and become more resilient.”
The amendments would also introduce mandatory server training, as is required in most Canadian provinces, and help ensure the safety of minors by doubling the fine for selling or serving liquor to minors to $480.
It would also add to the list of offences that may restrict the issuance of a liquor licence including certain Criminal Code convictions related to organized crime, as well as convictions related to the sale, distribution and production of cannabis under the Cannabis Act and the Cannabis Control Act.
08-12-20