Watson [2010] NZLLA 992 (3 September 2010)

Last Updated: 17 September 2010

[2010] NZLLA 992

IN THE MATTER of the Sale of Liquor Act 1989

AND

IN THE MATTER of an application by PETER COLIN WATSON pursuant to s.123 of the Act for renewal of a General Manager’s Certificate

BEFORE THE LIQUOR LICENSING AUTHORITY

Quorum: Dr J Horn

Mr P M McHaffie

DECISION

We have before us an application by Peter Colin Watson for renewal of a General Manager’s Certificate.

The Police and Rotorua District Licensing Agency Inspector did not oppose renewal but concerns were raised in relation to Mr Watson having been charged, some months prior to expiry of his certificate, for having registered an excess alcohol level of 1199 micrograms per litre of breath. The matter proceeded to Court where the charge was withdrawn by leave.

When Mr Watson filed his application to renew his certificate he was invited by the Rotorua Police to attend an interview. The interview took place in the company of the District Licensing Agency Inspector.

Mr Watson displayed clear signs of significant alcohol intake to the extent that he was requested to attend a further meeting the next day, where he still exhibited a strong odour of liquor. The Police report concludes with the comment that Mr Watson does not acknowledge that he has a problem with alcohol and it is stated that he has no convictions recorded in his name. Accordingly, renewal of his certificate is not opposed but the Police and Agency Inspector have recommended a truncated term of renewal of the manager’s certificate to which he has agreed.

We are satisfied as to the matters to which we must have regard in s.126 of the Act and we renew the certificate for 18 months until 26 October 2011. A notice of renewal is attached to this decision.

DATED at WELLINGTON this 3rd day of September 2010

______________
B M Holmes
Secretary

Peter Watson.doc(ab)