Responsible drinkers don’t need flexibility

I am for the proposed law banning retail sales of alcohol islandwide after 10.30pm. The Government should not favour any retailers, manufacturers or importers in this regard. A blanket ban is equitable for all businesses, big or small.

It also shows that the Government is committed and determined to preserve law and social order, instead of succumbing to industry lobbying.

The industry’s call for flexibility is not sustainable, because of the costs in terms of public time, labour, money and enforcement. It would compromise public interest in favour of industry interest.

The argument that the law will unduly penalise responsible consumers is flawed. Responsible consumers would comply and drink at a responsible time or at licensed watering holes or buy their needful at a responsible time to enjoy at home, whether the law is in place or not. (“Plan to restrict public drinking sparks outcry among some”; Jan 20)

Despite their appeal for flexibility, which I disagree with, the industry players’ plan for a healthy ecosystem of responsible liquor sale and consumption is necessary for a responsible industry. This should be considered, without delaying the passing of the law.

Also, a socially responsible industry should disclose to the public the proportion of alcohol sales in these retail stores. If a bulk of their sales is from alcohol, they should reinvent their business models to ensure long-term viability.