SUPERMARKETS STOP PROFITEERING AT EXPENSE OF COMMUNITY

The Muslim Judicial Council SA expresses its utter dismay and disappointment that certain major supermarket chains have capitalized on a definition interpretation error of the Liquor Act, 1989 and increased the sale of table wines to fortified alcohol since 10 June 2010. This unfortunate blind decision in pursuit of increased profit margins is devoid of any reflection of the devastating consequences of alcohol abuse and will certainly tarnish the image of family stores.

The MJC advocates and reiterates an uncompromising and clear position for a society free of all intoxicants with the purpose of nurturing a stable, responsible and sober society.  We therefore find this action to be void of any social responsibility or cognition for the increased destruction that the proliferation of alcohol will have on the social fabric of this community.

Supermarket chains have always been viewed as family stores with families and children of all ages freely and safely being able to shop at for their needs.  We urge the supermarket chains to reflect upon their actions in pursuit of increasing their profit margins which will result in an increase in the amount of already rampant alcohol induced violent crimes, abuse of women and children and the burden on our health care facilities.

The decision by certain supermarket chain stores to sell fortified alcohol is in conflict with the Liquor Act, 1989, and/or license conditions imposed in terms of that Act, it constitutes a breach of law and will be treated as such by the Liquor Board. Despite this, these chain stores continue to pursue the matter by making an application to the High Court for a declaratory order.