Saskatchewan liquor regulation in the hot seat

On July 4, 2012, CRFA’s Dwayne Marling (left) met with the new Minister Responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Donna Harpauer to discuss the province’s antiquated liquor regulatory regime.

(Jul. 9/12) Following CRFA’s call for a broader and more comprehensive review of the province’s antiquated liquor regulatory system, the Provincial Auditor of Saskatchewan has identified concerns with the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority (SLGA) in her 2012 report. She was particularly critical of the SLGA’s:

lack of transparency;
procedures in establishing liquor pricing and new product selection; and
lack of incentive to seek out best pricing due to its markup system.

CRFA action
On July 4, CRFA met with the new Minister Responsible for the Saskatchewan Liquor and Gaming Authority Donna Harpauer to:

outline CRFA member concerns of SLGA and the province’s liquor regulatory policies;
discuss plans resulting from the Legislation and Regulation Review Committee’s consultations on the Alcohol Control Regulations; and
discuss the Provincial Auditor’s report on SLGA.

Minister Harpauer was understood CRFA’s concerns and clearly articulated the need for change in Saskatchewan’s antiquated liquor regulatory regime. Minister Harpauer and CRFA committed to continue working together to ensure positive changes for Saskatchewan’s licensed restaurant operators.

CRFA's Saskatchewan Lobbyist

Saskatchewan liquor regulation in the hot seat