Gauteng Finance and Economic Development MEC Lebogang Maile has called on
learners in the province to celebrate in a responsible manner during the “Pens
Down Parties” at the end of this year’s final exams, strongly urging them to avoid
substance abuse especially alcohol and drugs.
“The Gauteng Liquor Act of 2003 prohibits the selling or supplying of liquor to
anyone under the age 18. All schools are declared alcohol-free zones, which
means no teacher, parent, or learner should possess alcohol on school premisses or
during school-related functions. Anyone found to be supplying alcohol to persons
under the age of 18 shall be prosecuted in accordance with the law,” MEC Maile
said.
“I therefore call on parents, communities and young people to work with government
to ensure that these celebrations in the province take place in a safe and secure
environment,” he explained.
Licensed liquor outlets that are found to be hosting or allowing the consumption of
alcohol by persons under the age of 18 shall have their licences suspended and
revoked by the Gauteng Liquor Board.
Various cases of irresponsible alcohol consumption including the 2022 tragedy at the
Enyobeni Tavern are a painful reminder of the consequences of non-compliance with
liquor regulations.
MEC Maile said from the first week of November, the Gauteng Liquor Board will be
conducting an ‘Anti-Pens Down Campaign’ across all corners of society including
on various social media platforms, liquor outlets and learning institutions. These
campaigns will be conducted working with law enforcement, School Governing
Bodies (SGBs), Community Policing Forums (CPFs) and various stakeholders in
communities.
“Our liquor inspectors, together with South African Police Service (SAPS) designated
liquor officers, will be conducting various compliance blitzes across the province. This will involve checking venues, cracking down on illegal sales, and making sure
the law is observed accordingly,” MEC Maile said, strongly warning that those found
breaking the law will be dealt with harshly to protect especially the most vulnerable in
society.
Members of the community can report the sale of alcohol to minors or underage
drinking at events or outlets to SAPS or to the Gauteng Liquor Board via the
following platforms: Email: Liquor.Queries@gauteng.gov.za or WhatsApp message
at 082 497 3254 or 060 532 4027. Anonymity is guarantee when contacting the
department using these platforms.
MEC Maile wishes all leaners well as they continue with the exams. He added that
government wants them to celebrate their academic milestones safely and
responsibly.
“Together, we can make Gauteng a place where young people thrive responsibly,”
MEC Maile said.
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Issued by the Gauteng Department of Finance and Economic Development
