Councillors keen to look at wider issues on alcohol

Councillors are keen to address alcohol issues of wider interest to the community. Photo / NZ Herald

Minimum prices for alcohol, liquor advertising and alcohol levels for drivers could be addressed by the Auckland Council in its submission on the Alcohol Reform Bill.

The council is preparing a submission on the Government bill, which gives councils the ability to control the location, number and operating hours of liquor outlets in their communities.

But some councillors are keen to address issues of wider interest to the community, rather than focusing on matters that fall within the council's responsibilities, .

Councillor Richard Northey said the council should not be rigid, and look at issues such as the minimum price of alcohol, liquor advertising and the alcohol level for drivers - matters outside the bill and generally outside the ambit of the council.

Liquor advertising, he said, could be considered when the council reviewed its signage bylaws.

The regional development and operation committee yesterday approved a process for preparing a submission involving the 21 local boards and community engagement.

Submissions to Parliament's justice and electoral select committee close on February 1.