It is that time of the year again.

The City Hall has imposed a temporary liquor ban in the city during the festive season.

In a paid print media advertisement, acting Port Moresby City Manager, Ravu Frank said the liquor restriction would affect ‘store keepers and bottle shops only.’

The ban, he said, will be effective on the Christmas and New Year Eve (December 24th and December 31st, 2021).

During past years, he justified, they had learnt that the consumption of alcohol has contributed to road accidents and violence in the communities.

“However, we will exempt licensed premises but will be subjected to surveillance during this period of restriction,” he said.

They include:

Restaurant – Liquor to be sold to dinners and guests in conjunction with a meal.
Clubs – Restricted to members and their guests only.
Limited Hotels and Publicans – liquor to be sold and supplied to dinners, and their in–house guests only in conjunction with meal in dining area. Alcohol may also be served and supplied to in-house guests through room service only.

Normal business operations will resume on January 03rd, he said.

We warn all operators that police will carry out surveillance operations during this period. Thus, premises found defying this notice, will be dealt with accordingly,” said Frank.