Halifax Nightclub Faces Allegations of Serving Minors and Employee Alcohol Consumption
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World Today News Staff">
A downtown Halifax establishment, the Dome Nightclub, is facing serious accusations from Nova Scotia’s Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division. The division alleges that the bar served alcohol to a minor and permitted employees to consume alcohol while on duty. These alleged violations of the Liquor Control Act occurred on June 6, 2024, following an inquiry.
The nightclub was initially issued a notice of proposed disciplinary action, which included a seven-day suspension of its liquor license. This suspension was slated to occur during the last weekend of July and the Natal Day weekend. However, the owner of the dome Nightclub has appealed this decision, allowing the establishment to continue operating until the matter is reviewed by the Nova Scotia Regulatory and Appeals board, the provincial body overseeing liquor licensees.
In its appeal, a legal representative for the bar’s owner has denied the allegations. The representative stated that the staff “exercised due diligence in relation to permitting entry or serving alcohol” to patrons.
Further allegations from the province include violations related to the improper dispensing of liquor, selling alcohol not in a glass, and engaging in activities deemed “detrimental to the orderly control and operation” of the bar on the same date.The proposed disciplinary measures also included new operational conditions, such as restricting liquor sales to by-the-glass only and prohibiting liquor bottles at customer tables, even for VIP services. Additionally, staff would be required to attend an instructional session provided by the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and tobacco Division.
A preliminary hearing for this matter is scheduled for August 26 before the Nova scotia energy Board. This is not the first time the Dome Nightclub has faced disciplinary action. Earlier this year, the bar’s liquor licence was suspended for four days due to a separate incident in 2023, were staff allowed intoxicated customers to re-enter the premises after being removed.
Both a spokesperson for the Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division and the owner of the Dome Nightclub declined to comment, citing that the case is currently before the appeals board.
Evergreen Insights
The regulation of alcohol service in public establishments is a critical aspect of public safety. Provincial bodies like Nova Scotia’s Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division are tasked with enforcing liquor control acts to prevent underage drinking, maintain order, and ensure responsible service. Violations can lead to significant penalties, including licence suspensions and fines, reflecting the seriousness with which these regulations are treated. Appeals processes allow for due review of decisions, ensuring fairness while upholding public interest.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the primary allegations against the Dome Nightclub?
- The Dome Nightclub is accused of serving alcohol to a minor and allowing employees to drink while working.
- When did the alleged violations occur?
- The alleged violations took place on June 6, 2024.
- What was the initial proposed disciplinary action?
- The initial proposal included a seven-day suspension of the nightclub’s liquor licence.
- Has the Dome Nightclub appealed the proposed suspension?
- Yes, the owner has appealed the decision, allowing the bar to remain open pending a review.
- What other violations are alleged?
- Other alleged violations include improper liquor dispensing, selling liquor not in a glass, and activities detrimental to the bar’s orderly operation.
- Has the Dome Nightclub faced disciplinary action before?
- Yes, the bar had its liquor licence suspended for four days earlier this year for allowing intoxicated customers back into the establishment.
