Can anyone open a liquor store?

Dear Editor,

What are the procedures you have to go through before a liquor shop can be opened? Some liquor shops have been opened at Meten-Meer-Zorg and I am not aware of any procedures having been taken by the owners.

These shops lead to indecent behaviour, cursing at street corners and urination on the streets with young girls around.

Loud music is played at any hour in the night by placing boxes on the verandah.

This problem is getting out of hand in the village and will increase crime.

Yours faithfully,

Moti Singh

Editor’s note

It is necessary to apply for a licence under the Intoxicating Liquor Licens-ing Act which leads to a hearing in the magistrate’s court when residents are entitled to object on the grounds specified in the Act. Notice of the application has to be published in the Official Gazette and the newspapers.

A copy of the licence should be displayed at the shop.

If a shop opens with no licence the matter should be reported to the police and the Guyana Revenue Authority who should prosecute the owner and close the shop.