LIBERALS WANT TO EASE REGULATIONS TO ALLOW U-VINTS
Date: Monday November 2, 2009

(Halifax, NS) Liberal MLA for Halifax Clayton Park Diana Whalen
today reintroduced a bill in the legislature to reduce unnecessary
regulations and allow for the operation of u-vints and u-brews with
proper licensing.

Whalen wants government to keep up with the times and reduce
unnecessary regulations and restrictions that limit business. Wine Kitz,
a Clayton Park wine making store that is allowing wine to be brewed on
their premises, was recently fined $310 after police followed up on a
complaint by the Nova Scotia Liquor Corporation.

"The practice of brewing on site provides choice for customers and
helps the small business meet customer demand,” said Whalen. "I hope
the NDP will allow this small business innovation instead of choosing to
defend the status quo like the previous government."

Whalen recognizes that wine making is a big hobby for many people and
is urging the government to re-examine our liquor laws in light of
changing circumstances. This is a practice that is widespread in other
provinces and provides convenience and service to customers.
Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island, Ontario and British Columbia allow
u-vints while New Brunswick is in the process of approving the service.

"Allowing people to ‘brew on site’ would help older and disabled
customers who have difficulty in handling the product," said Whalen.
"This would also be a great benefit to many people who live in
apartments and condos, allowing them to enjoy wine making."

Whalen believes that if the NDP government is serious about supporting
small business, they would review the province’s outdated regulations
and approaches to this issue.

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