In 2023, Ontario Premier Doug Ford and his government were finalizing plans to allow the sale of beer, wine, and pre-mixed drinks in convenience and grocery stores across the province. As the policy was being developed, input was sought from stakeholders and experts. Mothers Against Drunk Driving, Arrive Alive, and the Centre for Addictions and Mental Health all cautioned against moving too quickly, emphasizing that making alcohol more accessible would come with risks. Despite this advice, the government announced it would allow convenience stores to sell alcohol by 2026. Ford later accelerated this timeline, making $225 million payment to The Beer Store to start liberalizing alcohol sales in 2024.
Various advocacy groups, including MADD, Arrive Alive, and CAMH, advised the government to proceed with caution and to start small when rolling out alcohol sales in convenience stores. They emphasized the need for a gradual expansion and raised concerns about the increased accessibility of alcohol leading to more harm. However, the government disregarded this advice and expedited the process, with thousands of new licenses for alcohol sales set to be active in September 2024. The president of OPSEU, representing LCBO workers, criticized the government for ignoring expert advice and pushing ahead with their agenda without considering the potential consequences.
CAMH, Arrive Alive, and MADD highlighted their concerns about the policy to allow on-site drinking at convenience stores like 7-11. They pointed out the risks associated with increased on-site consumption of alcohol, particularly for vulnerable populations. Despite these concerns, licenses for 7-11 stores to sell alcohol for takeaway were issued, with plans for on-site drinking on hold until necessary steps are completed. Advocacy groups expressed reservations about the on-site drinking option and called for close monitoring to ensure the policy does not lead to negative outcomes.
Advocacy groups have accepted that the Ford government has made its decision regarding alcohol sales expansion but are hopeful that measures can still be put in place to mitigate potential harms. Suggestions included increased resources for addiction facilities and early intervention programs to address alcohol addiction. The Ministry of Finance stated that funds would be allocated to support social responsibility and public health efforts, ensuring that alcohol is sold and consumed safely in the expanded marketplace. Minimum pricing for alcohol would remain in place to prevent retailers from pricing products below regulated minimum prices.
Despite concerns raised by experts and advocacy groups, the Ford government proceeded with its plan to expand alcohol sales to convenience stores in Ontario. The government’s decision to speed up the rollout and allow for on-site drinking options at stores like 7-11 has been met with criticism from various stakeholders. While measures are being put in place to address potential harms and ensure responsible alcohol consumption, concerns persist about the impact of increased accessibility on public health and safety. Continued monitoring and resources for addiction services will be crucial in managing the consequences of the expanded alcohol sales policy.
