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Have your say on modernisation of alcohol licensing laws

Monday, 14 December 2020

Alcohol

Feedback is being sought on the proposed modernisation of the Island’s alcohol licensing laws and how innovation can be encouraged within the trade while taking into account the needs of the community.

The Isle of Man Government has today (Monday 14 December) launched a public consultation on potentially wide-reaching reform in this area and the development of a new Licensing Bill.

The focus of the consultation is around enabling economic growth through a more streamlined licensing procedure which is responsive to new ideas.

It is recognised that this must be done in collaboration, representing the needs of the licensed trade alongside those of residential communities and the emergency services.

Participants are asked to supply their views on seven policy principles which will inform the development of legislation by the Department of Home Affairs.

Minister for Justice and Home Affairs Graham Cregeen, MHK said:

‘I encourage everyone with views on the future of licensing on the Island to take this opportunity to get involved and play an important part in the forthcoming changes. 

‘The past year’s challenges have shown us how fortunate we are to live here - and being able to safely and sensibly enjoy a vibrant social scene with music events, dining out and trips to the pub is a big part of this. 

‘Ensuring that the foundations are in place to regulate licensed premises properly, as well as support a balanced regime, is a key element in preparing new legislation, and it is vital that the policy behind it is transparent.’

The consultation document is available to view on the Government website and may also be downloaded electronically from the Consultation Hub.

Alternatively, written comments can be emailed to GeneralEnquiries.DHA@gov.im or by post to the Administration and Policy Manager, Department of Home Affairs, Headquarters Building, Tromode, Douglas, IM2 5PA.

The process will run for five weeks and conclude on Monday 18 January 2021.

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