The relevant Minister has promulgated Regulations in terms of the Disaster Management Act regarding the times off consumption liquor premises may be open for trading.
The times are of immediate force and effect.
The times apply to all liquor stores in South Africa and override any existing dispensation.
The terminology used is clumsy as the Minister refers to a store “closing” whereas there is both an opening and closing scenario in terms of times. The Minister should have referred to selling hours as defined in current liquor legislation.
The stipulated times are:
- 09h00 to 18h00 on Weekdays and Saturdays; and
- 09h00 to 13h00 on Sundays and Public Holidays.
The Minister has omitted to provide that non-compliance is an offence – failure to comply with other provisions are reflected as offences involving jail and fine sanctions.
