New Zealand National Party

Media Statement

Turner expresses concern over local liquor licence

National Candidate for Mangere and member of the District Licensing Committee Misa Fia Turner has expressed concern and disappointment in the decision of the Auckland District Licensing Committee to allow a liquor store to open directly opposite Southern Cross Campus in Mangere.

“National is committed to minimising alcohol-related harm in our communities. Our Alcohol Reform Bill introduced stricter liquor licensing criteria, including restricting the proximity to amenities such as schools. In this case, the committee have failed to meet this test,” said Ms Turner.

“I work with young people and at-risk families and see the impact alcohol and substance abuse has on our community. It is vitally important that we do everything in our power to protect our children from alcohol-related harm. One of the key ways to do this is to restrict the conditions on liquor stores in our communities.

“National believe in giving local communities the power to determine where and how alcohol is sold through local alcohol policies (LAPs). It is important for communities to be able to set conditions that best reflect their situation.

“I encourage our local community to have their say on Auckland Council’s draft LAP, released on Monday for public consultation. The District Licensing Committee would be required to consider LAP provisions when making a decision about an application.

“I commend the strong objections from Southern Cross Campus, the Mangere-Otahuhu Local Board and the Mangere Family Service Centre and I encourage them to appeal to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority,” said Ms Turner.

Any individual or group who is dissatisfied with the decision can appeal to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority. In some situations, the District Licensing Committee decision may be suspended pending the outcome of the appeal. Appeals must be made within 10 working days after the decision was made.

ENDS

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