Further to Cabinet's press release issued on December 24, 2022, the Ministry of Rural Transformation, Community Development, Labour and Local Government notifies the public that Statutory Instrument No. 175 of 2022 provides for the repeal and replacement of several sub-sections under Regulation 5 of the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Regulations, Subsidiary Laws, 2003, which provides for the Hours of Closing for Licensed Premises.

Substantially, the revised and amended regulations standardize the daily closing hours for premises licensed under the following categories:

• Shop License: closed between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. of the following day

• Beer License: closed between 9:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. of the following day

• Publican Special: closed between midnight and 9:00 a.m. of the following day

• Night Club: closed between 2:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. of the following day

Specifically, the amended regulations repeal and replace closing restrictions for particular weekdays and public and bank holidays for the license categories listed above.

The public, particularly license holders, is advised to take note of the amendments.

In the coming year, the ministry will carry out an extensive revision exercise to modernize the Intoxicating Liquor Licensing Act and its subsidiary regulations.

The ministry wishes all Belizeans a safe and joyous holiday season and best wishes for the New Year.