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Level 2 lockdown: On-site alcohol sale and consumption allowed
The wait is over; this week you can enjoy your favourite alcoholic beverage while out and about.
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The on-site sale and consumption of alcohol within licensed establishments will be permitted under Level 2 lockdown, which comes into effect at midnight on Monday 17 August.
During a long-awaited national address on Saturday night, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa would be moving to a new level of lockdown. Citing the country’s successful response to the coronavirus pandemic — which was met with a hard lockdown in March — Ramaphosa noted that South Africa had weathered the worst of the storm, passing the virus’ peak, and, as such, the focus would shift to an all-out reopening of the economy.
While stringent regulations under the National State of Disaster afforded South Africa a window of opportunity to better prepare its healthcare response, the adverse economic impacts of lockdown — which have been particularly harsh on the country’s hospitality industry — have proven to be a topic of fierce contention.
Level 2 lockdown: Restaurants allowed to serve alcohol
The restaurant industry, which has languished under a severe economic burden as a result of lockdown’s curfews, prohibitions and limitations on gatherings, will be afforded a much-needed reprieve under Level 2 lockdown. Industry stakeholders, who have long-petitioned for the right to sell alcohol to in-store customers, will claim victory when the country enters Level 2 lockdown this coming week.
Ramaphosa revealed that, in addition to lifting the controversial ban on tobacco products, alcohol would not only return to off-site shelves but would be available for on-site consumption. The president noted that both the off-site and on-site sale of alcohol would be closely regulated by laws within the Disaster Management Act, ratified by the NCCC. Ramaphosa said:
“The suspension of the sale of alcohol will be lifted subject to certain restrictions.
Alcohol will be permitted for on-site consumption in licensed establishments only up until 22:00.
Liquor outlets will be allowed to sell alcohol for off-site consumption from Monday to Thursday during the hours of 09:00 to 17:00 only.”
Other major changes coming this week
South African smokers will also be delighted with the recent news which sees the ban on tobacco products, which has been in place for almost five months and faced a barrage of legal challenges, lifted.
Interprovincial travel, which has been hard-fought for by the embattled tourism industry, will also be permitted under Level 2 lockdown. Ramaphosa added:
“Restrictions on family and social visits will also be lifted, although everyone is urged to exercise extreme caution and undertake such visits only if necessary.”
The NCCC is expected to officially gazette the newest set of regulations within the next 48-hours.
