B.C. Conservatives push for earlier bar service during World Cup matches
The new opposition leadership says liquor rules should allow earlier serving times for morning Canada games, citing examples from Olympic hockey events.
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British Columbia's new Conservative leadership is calling for extended alcohol service hours during the FIFA World Cup to give bars and restaurants an economic boost.
Trevor Halford, interim leader of the Opposition, said bars and restaurants should be able to apply for temporary licences allowing them to serve alcohol earlier than usual when Canada plays morning matches. "It makes sense to allow bars and restaurants to serve alcohol earlier than usual," he said. "Canada's next game is in the morning, and businesses should be able to apply for a temporary licence that would allow them to serve prior to game time."
Halford noted similar exemptions have been granted for hockey games at the Olympics and World Juniors. Liquor rules have already been adjusted during FIFA, primarily by extending service hours at bars and restaurants. New Conservative leader Kerry-Lynne Findlay said she hopes the temporary change will let British Columbians keep celebrating "this terrific occasion."
