Don't Buy for Minors Campaign

The Nova Scotia Liquor Commission is conducting its successful Don't Buy for Minors campaign again this year. It's being officially launched on Friday, June 16.

The program discourages sales of alcohol to minors and deters second-party purchases. During the campaign, liquor store staff conduct aggressive ID checks. Staff undergo training and promote the campaign by wearing buttons that say Don't Buy for Minors. As well, newspaper ads and posters in liquor stores and RCMP offices promote the responsible use of alcohol.

The Don't Buy for Minors campaign enjoyed considerable success last year. Staff at liquor stores asked 13,317 customers for legal identification and turned away 1,445 minors as a result.

Staff also questioned 421 customers who were suspected to be buying alcohol for minors.

"Buying alcohol for minors is illegal and irresponsible," said Bruce Rogers, executive director of retail services. "Adults caught buying alcohol for minors face possible jail time and a fine of up to $1,000. Our message is simple, don't buy for minors."

"We intend to continue this campaign annually, as part of the Nova Scotia Liquor Commission's duty to see alcohol in a responsible fashion. We do not take underage drinking lightly."

The campaign is timed to support Safe Grad activities this month. The Safe Grad program demonstrates that teens can enjoy high school graduation activities without drinking.

"Sponsoring Safe Grad has proven to be an effective part of our commitment to responsible drinking," said Mr. Rogers.