67% of domestic abuse cases in Cape linked to alcohol
A shocking 67% of all domestic abuse cases in the Western Cape are linked to alcohol abuse. Western Cape is the fourth largest of the nine provinces of the Republic of South Africa in terms of both area and population. The Western Cape Community Safety Department recently reported new data about domestic violence.
The department held a public consultation session on Friday on the Draft Western Cape Liquor Regulations 2011: Amendment 2017, in Cape Town.
The new draft of the Western Cape Liquor Regulations will result in more evidence-based regulation of alcohol and the alcohol industry, to curb alcohol harm. Evidence shows that alcohol is the major risk factor for domestic violence.
The amendments of the regulations would try to put a stop to the illegal and unregulated traders to ensure compliance, and assist in reducing the harmful effects of alcohol.
Previously, chairperson of the Athlone Community Policing Forum, Aziza Kannemeyer, revealed the festive season was a scary period because she saw a correlation between domestic violence cases and alcohol consumption. The medical doctors have said that over a weekend, up to 70% to 80% of their patients visiting the trauma units are under the influence of alcohol.
The new draft of the Western Cape Liquor Regulations is undergoing public consultation with only one session left before the deadline for public comment.
