By paNOW

Province defends not having a Prince Albert-based liquor inspector

Jan 14, 2014 | 11:27 PM

Prince Albert’s alcohol strategy remains in the discussion phase, and one recommendation being tossed around is to have a permanent liquor inspector in the city.

Right now, the city does not have one, as all of the province’s liquor inspectors are based out of Saskatoon and Regina.

“They’re on the road constantly going all over the province, so while their office may be in Saskatoon or Regina, that doesn’t mean they are limited there; and certainly as the third largest city in the province, our inspectors are frequently in Prince Albert,” said David Morris, a spokesperson for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA).

When pressed to explain what he meant by “frequently,” Morris said it would depend on a number of factors.

“It really depends on what’s happening in the community, the type of event or if there is a large event, you know what sort of potential there is for public safety issues,” he said.

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And one Prince Albert bar owner said on Tuesday that the last time a liquor inspector came to his establishment was three months ago.

According to the SLGA website, there have only been two liquor permit infractions in Prince Albert in the past two years, and they were both at the same business.

Best Western Marquis Inn and Suites was fined $7,000 last year selling alcohol to a person who appeared intoxicated. In 2012, the business was fined $4,000 for serving alcohol to a minor.

“The majority of the permitees in the province do follow the rules related to their permits. It’s obviously in their best interest that their establishments are safe, and their customers are comfortable,” said Morris.

The SLGA works in partnership with police, and responds when concerns are raised about a particular event or business. Morris said this partnership has worked well in the past, but they are always looking for new ways to improve safety in communities.

nmaxwell@panow.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell