Proposal Call to Look at Liquor Options

The province is moving ahead with the next step in examining the future of the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission.

In the recent budget address, the government identified the commission as a candidate for privatization, in whole or in part.

Rodney MacDonald, Minister responsible for the Liquor Control Act, has issued a call for proposals for assistance in the evaluation of various options open to the government.

The information will assist a government working committee established to identify and analyse potential business models for the warehousing, distribution and sale of alcohol. Part of the analysis will include an assessment of the impact of each model on government finances, public service, staff, and control of the sale of beer, wine and liquor. The options government may consider are diverse and include distributing wine and beer through grocery and corner stores, to full privatization of the service.

"We want to see all of the options, and all of the impact, before deciding," said Mr. MacDonald. "The crucial point remains that any change in the status quo can only go ahead if government revenues from sales are protected."

The request for proposals will be open for bidding until Friday, May 12. The successful company will be expected to deliver its report by the end of June.

The Nova Scotia Liquor Commission is mandated to control the possession, sale, transportation and delivery of all alcoholic beverages in the province. It operates 100 outlets and employs an estimated 690 people. For the fiscal year ending on March 31, 1999, the commission had sales of $363 million and contributed $131 million to the provincial consolidated fund.