This Is Guernsey

By Joel de Woolfson

SHIP & CROWN licensee Mark Pontin has claimed that drinking rules on Liberation Day do not need to be tightened.

Last year, alcohol-free zones were introduced for the first time and Mr Pontin said he thought they had worked well. ‘Yes, it did work last year but I don’t think we need to be any stricter with it,’ he said.

The Home Department has prepared a briefing paper that sets out a number of proposals for amendments to The Liquor Licensing (Guernsey) Ordinance, 2006, and the use of alcohol-free zones is one of its considerations. ‘The High Street was not included as one of the alcohol-free zones last year so I think the department wants to include it this year,’ Mr Pontin said.

‘The licensing trade knows the Home Department is going to extend it on Liberation Day.

‘We need to be strict with our licensing in Guernsey to make sure that we keep it a nicer environment than you get in the UK. But I think for Liberation Day we need to use our common sense. It doesn’t need to be stricter than last year.’

The 2006 law was brought in to help the department and police focus on the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance and the protection of children from harm.

Another proposal set out in the briefing paper includes provisions for strengthening police powers in respect of the confiscation and disposal of alcohol when consumed in a public place by under-18s.

Mr Pontin said he thought this year’s Liberation Day would not be the same as 2007.

‘This year is going to be completely different because it falls on a Friday so it will be a lot busier,’ he said.

‘Most people have the next day off.

‘Liberation Day falling on a Friday is not a plus, though. But I think what stops all the trouble is having more visible stewards and police: that’s what keeps everyone in order.’