The Sekhukhune Liquor Traders Association has expressed concerns over threats to revoke liquor licenses from its members.
This after the Limpopo department of economic development threatened to revoke licences of liquor establishments near schools.
Noise control
The department of economic development, environment and tourism called for controlled noise levels from liquor retailers that are close to schools.
The department claimed to have received several complaints of loud music from the establishments during school hours.
It explained that noise could not be tolerated, especially during the final examination days.
Liquor traders shocked
Sello Mokwana, Sekhukhune Liquor Traders Association deputy chairperson, expressed shock and frustration.
He said it was frustrating that the department always came to conclusions without engaging with them first.
He told Sunday World that the department came to an unfair decision as most of activities at liquor establishments take place after school hours.
“It is also surprising that the department threatens to confiscate liquor licenses from liquor establishments that are playing loud music.
Unfair to small businesses
“They are contradicting themselves because it makes no sense how they issued the license in the first place.
“Basic rule is that liquor outlets and schools should be 500 metres apart.
“However, the reality is that some schools were built within this radius while taverns or liquor stores already existed there.
“If a tavern was built when a school already existed, how were they granted a license?
“The department should avoid shifting blames unnecessarily,” said Mokwana.
He said they were still to have a meeting with the department to iron out unresolved issues.
Not backing down
Mokwana added that they would squeeze the matter in as the association is unhappy with the decision.
He said the decision showed that the department was on a mission to destroy small businesses.
His reasoning behind this was that many issues involving bigger liquor establishments were avoided.
He gave an example that liquor retailers should not be found inside a grocery store at filling stations, but the department always ignored that.
Mokwana said he agreed to controlled noise levels during the day to respect “the future of South Africa” as they write their exams.
Unfair treatment
However, he requests the same respect when it is time for liquor establishments to operate.
Departmental spokesperson Zaid Kalla said the department was not willing to negotiate any solutions.
He said solutions that did not show respect to the hours needed by learners to write their exams would not be entertained.
Kalla said complaints from community members and schools were priority.
He added that the Limpopo Liquor Board would revoke the license if the license holder is found guilty.
Alternatively, conditions of the license would be drastically amended.
Stringent conditions
“License holders are also reminded that they have a responsibility to control their patrons or customers.
“No customer is entitled to purchase alcohol from a liquor restaurant and consume it outside the establishment.
“They are also not allowed to drink in their cars while playing loud music and causing a nuisance,” said Kalla.
