Licensing Forum

The Isle of Man Licensing Forum was established in February 2005 to assess the legislation under which the industry, the courts and the police operate and any associated problems. The aim is to ensure the industry has a suitable environment in which to operate whilst providing that the regulation of the industry by the police and the issuing of licences by the courts are effective.

The Forum has proved highly successful and has brought government, the industry and the police together to address alcohol related problems.

The membership includes the following:-

• Julian Lalor-Smith, Chairman, Department of Home Affairs
• Sergeant Ged Power, Alcohol Unit, Isle of Man Constabulary
• Grant Paterson, Heron & Brearley
• David Woodiwiss, Sefton, LVA
• Martin Brunnschweiler, Bushy's Brewery, LVA
• Heath Craig, the Vineyard
• Chris Taggart, Heron & Brearley
• Nicola Pitts, Laurence Keenan Advocates
• Peter Whittaker, Spar
• Claire Newall, Secretary, Department of Home Affairs
• Andy Hardy, Slug and Lettuce, MENA

The Forum has dealt with many issues in the last two years including:

• Bans from licensed premises,
• Designated Places Orders (Liquor Licensing),
• Test purchasing,
• Underage drinking,
• Designated Officials,
• Music and Dance (Licensed Premises),
• Wholesale sale of liquor,
• Alcohol and drug problems in young people,
• Drinks Promotions,
• Age of consumption of liquor in public houses,
• Door staff training,
• Duty paid labels,
• The Noise Act etc.

The major issue currently under consideration is the ban on smoking in workplaces including all licensed premises which is to be introduced in 2008.

For further information contact the Secretary Mrs Claire Newall on 01624-694323 or email generalenquiries.dha@gov.im.