Lockdown Level 2: Now tavern owners welcome decision
South African tavern and bottle store owners have welcomed the government’s decision not to impose another alcohol ban under the adjusted Covid-19 Lockdown Level 2 that comes into effect from Monday 31 May.
The National Liquor Traders Council (NLTC), which represents thousands of taverns and bottle stores, said in a statement that it welcomed the government’s decision not to place any restrictions on the sale of alcohol.
“This means that taverners will be permitted to continue trading as normal, subject to the revised curfew hours and limits on indoor gatherings, as well as their licence conditions,” NLTC conveyor Luck Ntimane said.
Under the adjusted Level 2 Lockdown, the new curfew is from 11pm until 4am. Bars, restaurants, taverns and gyms have to close at 10pm in order to give their staff enough time to travel home before the curfew.
“We believe not placing any restrictions on the alcohol trade was the right decision by the government,” Ntimane said.
“Our members have gone the extra mile to ensure full compliance with all the Covid-19 safety protocols and we remain committed to support the government in the fight against Covid-19.
“and allows the legal industry to ensure that alcohol is consumed in a responsible manner.”
“We call on all liquor outlets, our customers and the public at large to remain vigilant and adhere to all the Covid-19 safety measures. We must all play our part to help defeat Covid-19,” Ntimane said.
“We hope this decision is a sign that the government is taking a more scientific approach to managing the pandemic and will continue to do so in future,” Ntimane said.
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