17 April 2020
Tēnā koe
Support for an urgent change to the Sales and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012
I am writing this letter in support of Maura Rigby’s call to make an urgent change to the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, using the provisions set out in Epidemic Preparedness Act 2006 to better support the hospitality industry’s recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The change sought by Ms Rigby, and supported by the wider hospitality sector, seeks to allow already On-Licenced restaurants, cafés and bars to apply for emergency Off-Licences while the Alert Levels remain in place, heavily restricting our industries ability to trade.
I understand this change could be brought about by the Minister responsible for the Sale and Supply of Alcohol Act 2012, Hon Andrew Little, the Minister of Justice. This change will help kick-start many hospitality businesses’ recovery.
Without action, the maintenance of jobs and ongoing viability of many hospitality businesses that rely on alcohol sales alongside their food sales will be put in jeopardy. This change is not an attempt to promote excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, but rather an affirmative measure allowing responsible licence holders to continue to offer alcoholic beverages with meals, by way of contactless delivery, while Alert Levels and social distancing orders remain in place.
There is public and industry support for this change. Our Association is available to assist in the creation of any guidance to sit alongside this change. Should you wish to discuss this with me directly, please do not hesitate to pick up the phone 027 559 7777.
Ngā mihi nui,
Marisa Bidois
Tāhūhū Rangapū (Chief Executive)
Restaurant Association of New Zealand