EASTERN CAPE NEWS - Tavern owners belonging to the Eastern Cape Liquor Forum (ECLF) are calling for the withdrawal of the draft Tobacco Products and Electronic Delivery Systems Control Bill, asserting that it neglects the realities of townships and poses a threat to thousands of black-owned taverns, eateries, shisanyamas and other small businesses.
The ECLF, representing 20 associations and over 3 000 licensed establishments in the Eastern Cape Province, voiced their concerns during public hearings on the Tobacco Bill held in Butterworth, Queenstown and East London over the weekend.
The majority of participants strongly rejected the proposed legislation.
ECLF president Bafo Tola emphasised several key provisions in the bill that the ECLF opposes, including a ban on smoking in public outdoor spaces, a ban on the sale of single cigarettes, and a ban on the display of all tobacco products.
Tola argued that the proposed ban on smoking in public outdoor areas would be impractical and unsafe in township environments. He highlighted the potential difficulties patrons would face in finding legal smoking areas, as opposed to more affluent areas like Sandton or Waterkloof.
The bill also places the responsibility on tavern owners to enforce the smoking ban near their establishments, leading to concerns about strained relationships with patrons and potential harm to businesses.
Additionally, the proposed ban on closed-off designated indoor smoking areas raised objections from tavern owners who have invested significantly in providing legal and comfortable spaces for smokers.
Tola also criticised the ban on displaying cigarettes and the prohibition of selling single cigarettes. He asked how customers would know what products are available without displays and argued that banning the sale of single cigarettes would not deter smoking, as customers could still buy packs to share.
Tola expressed concern that the proposed legislation would criminalise law-abiding citizens, and he criticised the potential for increased police intimidation and corruption. He urged the government to address the illicit trade in tobacco products before considering further restrictive measures.
Highlighting the adverse impact on township entrepreneurs, Tola emphasised that tavern owners create much-needed jobs and contribute significantly to the economy.
The ECLF rejected the bill, stating that it would have a disastrous effect on their members and communities.
The ECLF called for proper consultation with township stakeholders, asserting that the proposed measures in the bill are not a viable solution to government concerns about smoking.
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