Sia urges alcohol industry to comply with liquor laws

Eastern Highlands Governor Simon Sia has called on alcohol manufacturers and distributors in the province to strictly comply with liquor laws introduced by the Provincial Executive Council [PEC].

Governor Sia issued the appeal during a consultative meeting with industry representatives at the Bird of Paradise Hotel in Goroka on Friday.

The PEC regulations cover trading days, trading hours and the ban of certain alcohol products.

“Laws are made to safeguard the interests of the province, the business community and the people,” Governor Sia said. “We must work together to promote peace, unity and harmony. You are putting people’s lives at risk and contributing to the social problems our province is facing.”

Goroka Police Station Commander Chief Inspector Timothy Pomose supported the Governor’s remarks, warning that alcohol abuse is a major factor behind law and order problems.

“The police will not hesitate to close down outlets not operating according to the laws imposed by the PEC,” he said. “Running a business is one thing, but protecting lives and property is another.”