Some members of the public in Samoa have expressed concern at the government’s move to extend trading hours for alcohol sales.
And the Minister of Revenue Tialavea Tionisio Hunt has rubbished claims according to Samoa Observer.
“Social problems associated with alcohol consumption have been in existence in Samoa long before the Liquor Board made the decision,” he said.
Tialavea said the move was due to the request by retail stores, this was due to popular demand from the small shops.
“Their claims are valid, when considering that hotels, night clubs and stores all have one goal and that is to make some money,” he added.
The minister said it is unfair for the government to allow the hotels and night clubs extended hours and yet ban the small shops.
Tialavea also emphasized that the decision to extend the sales hours came after a thorough discussion.
The minister also said the decision by the Liquor Board does not have any bearing on the stores located in villages, which are governed by the by-laws of the village councils on the sale of alcohol.
