As of November 1, 2010, owners of establishments licensed to sell alcohol, such as bars, lounges, and clubs, must ensure that patrons have vacated their premises within 60 minutes after the regulated closing time for alcohol sale. The Honourable Tom Marshall, Minister of Finance and President of Treasury Board, announced the new mandatory exit time today.

"Having a fixed exit time in place will help enhance the security and social enjoyment of individuals who attend licensed establishments across the province," said Minister Marshall. "By updating this regulation, we are ensuring that it supports the objective of maintaining public safety as well as the interests of businesses."

The mandatory exit time was introduced with an amendment to the liquor licensing regulations under the provincial Liquor Control Act. This regulation is consistent with many other Canadian provinces and territories, which also have set times after which patrons must vacate licensed establishments. In Newfoundland and Labrador, while regulations require that customers are to finish consuming drinks within 30 minutes after the legislated time for the close of sale of alcohol, until now there was no law requiring them to exit the premises.

The mandatory exit time is intended to ensure that establishments are operating within their licence and legislative requirements, which prohibit the sale and consumption of alcohol after the permitted time. It will also afford law enforcement agencies additional support in their efforts to monitor possible after hours activity, enforce the law, and ensure public safety.

"The regulations allow for a prescribed time, after alcohol sales close, by which licensed premises must be vacated," said the Honourable Felix Collins, Minister of Justice and Attorney General. "Our government consulted with the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in developing these amendments. A set exit time will enhance the work of law enforcement agencies as well as the safety of the public."

In addition to the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary and Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Provincial Government gathered input from the province's hospitality industry in establishing the mandatory exit time.

Minister Marshall also noted that the new regulation provides for reasonable accommodation of restaurants that offer a regular 24-hour full-service food menu.

The implementation of the mandatory exit time is being communicated directly to owners of licensed establishments in the province through the Newfoundland Labrador Liquor Corporation in advance of the November 1, 2010, effective date.

- 30 -

Media contacts: