Gauteng: Alcohol might be outlawed near schools and places of worship

The liquor board may grant or deny a license if alcohol is sold within 500m from a school or place of worship.

JOHANNESBURG - Gauteng Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile spoke to Talk Radio 702's Redi Tlhabi about the legislation on alcohol outlets near schools and places of worship.

The MEC recalled a problem with school kids in uniform being at illegal liquor outlets a few years ago, where a raid conducted by police found children in uniform were being served during school hours.

"The board must endeavor to limit the negative impact of liquor outlets in residential areas." said Maile.

Maile says, that the liquor board may grant or deny a license where a proposed place to be licensed is within a 500 metre radius of a place of worship or an educational institution or another liquor outlet.

The MEC says that there are an estimated 12,000 illegal traders in the province.

Speaking to the issue of outlets near places of worship, Maile said that the intention was to pay respect to the religious communities.

Maile also recalled instances of kids going to school intoxicated.

The liquor trade has been a thorny issue for the Gauteng government.

Last year, liquor traders were relieved when the government announced that the new Gauteng Liquor Act would allow trading on Sundays.

But the new act tightens requirements for the granting of licences and compels traders to sell food if their patrons drink on the premises.

You can listen to the entire interview with the MEC below: