Gauteng shebeens granted permit extension

Johannesburg  - The Gauteng Liquor Forum (GLF) has welcomed the decision by the Gauteng MEC for Economic Development, Qedani Dorothy Mahlangu, to extend shebeen permits by eight months until February 28 2013.

The GLF, which represents over 8 000 shebeen and tavern owners, has previously voiced its concerns over the proposed changes to the Gauteng liquor bill, which would have seen shebeen permits expire this month.

According to MEC Mahlangu, the extension will provide the necessary space for the migration of shebeen permits into the liquor licensing regime. This will lead to better regulation of the sale of liquor in the province.

Shebeen permits, although temporary legal documents, have been in operation in Gauteng since 2004 and grant liquor traders the right to trade.

It is estimated that the Gauteng Liquor Board has issued about 15 000 shebeen permits in total, more than half of which are active in the market.

"We applaud the MEC's decision to extend shebeen permits for another eight months, and believe that this will give liquor traders across our province the opportunity to be a part of the process that will shape the Gauteng liquor bill going forward," said GLF spokesperson Linda Madida.

"By taking this decision, MEC Mahlangu is providing an opportunity of further engagement with all stakeholders to be part of the process to develop a legislative enabling environment for shebeen licensing.

"At the same time, we'd like to remind our members to trade responsibly, and within the rules stipulated by the permits," said Madida.

"Permits are not for sale and their renewal is free of charge. MEC Mahlangu has given us all the opportunity to trade legally, so let's ensure that we do it responsibly too."