Residents are up in arms following an announcement that, alcohol will be sold on Sundays, this according to the new Liquor Act. The ruling is said to come into effect in April 2012.

Christian circles are strongly condemning the new regulation citing that the sale of alcohol has no respect for Sundays, which many to believe to be a 'holy day'.

Speaking to the South Coast News, a devout Christian said that he was disappointed with the new legislation.

"Sundays are meant to be revered as says spent worshipping God and taking time out to be with family. Although many still work on the day, according to the Bible, it is a day of rest," he said.

Currently, stores selling alcohol have been banned from selling liquor on Sundays.

According to current legislation, it states that trading hours for alcohol is Monday to Friday, from 8am to 8pm and Saturdays, from 8am to 5pm.

Media statements reported that the regulations call upon those wanted to apply to the Liquor Board to provide a detailed security plan. It is further stated that renewal of licences would not be automatic but that they are dependent on the ability of the licencee to adhere to licence conditions.

Meanwhile, police have vowed to enforce stricter laws regarding shops and outlets selling to minors.

SAP spokesperson, Colonel Jay Naicker, has issued a press release stating that they are going to crack the whip on minor legislation.

"Section 45 of the Liquor Act, Act 27/1989, regulates the access to liquor licenced premises by minors. In terms of the Act, a minor is defined as a person who has not attained the age of 18 years. Minors accompanying adults, be it parents, guardians or any other adult, into bottle stores or other liquor outlets, has become a matter of concern. The Act specifically prohibits minors being employed, making purchases or even entering premises dealing in liquor with the exception of premises operating under a restaurant liquor licence where the provision of meals is their primary line of service," he said.
Naicker said that officers throughout the province have been sensitised to this breach of the law and will be monitoring liquor outlets on a regular basis.

"The adult, who takes a minor into these premises, as well as the licence holder, who allows a minor access into the premises, shall face prosecution," he added.

"We treat this matter as extremely serious in view of the growing number of children who indulge in liquor. We will also be targeting stores which sell tobacco products to minors. These practices are also in contravention of the Child Care Act which protects the interests and rights of children," Naicker concluded.