The Citizen reports that the liquor industry and the Gauteng Provincial Government have signed a pledge to put safety before profit, with Premier Panyaza Lesufi announcing plans to hire 800 liquor inspectors.
Shebeens, taverns and other drinking establishments have seen a series of crime-related incidents, including mass shootings. Lesufi said the province was determined to address the challenges associated with liquor misuse head-on. “Through compliance monitoring, eradicating illegal trade, and reducing corruption, we aim to foster an era where all traders operate responsibly and uphold the law. To ensure this, we are in the process of employing 800 liquor inspectors that will jointly work with law enforcement,” he stated. The Gauteng Government confirmed that it was taking decisive action to prioritise safety, reduce crime, and promote responsible practices and added: “Liquor misuse has adverse effects on families and communities, and contributes to crime, gender-based violence, foetal alcohol spectrum disorder, and road accidents. The pledge also acknowledges the substantial economic contribution and job creation facilitated by the industry.”
- Read the full original of the report in the above regard by Faizel Patel at The Citizen
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