A total of 355 establishments selling and consuming alcoholic beverages in inappropriate locations, particularly educational establishments, were closed down by the National Inspectorate of Economic Activities (INAE) throughout the country.

The information was given yesterday, Wednesday (04), at the Seminar on Children in Conflict with the Law, the Prevention of Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages, Drugs, and Tobacco for Children, Adolescents and Young People.

On the occasion, INAE's National Director for Education, Sport and Culture, Leonor Mabutana, said that one of the constraints in this area is related to the lack of control in licensing these establishments.

For its part, INAE accused the Administrative Court (TA) of making its orders against traders who stubbornly violate the law banning the sale of alcoholic beverages within 500 meters of educational establishments unfeasible.

According to Inspector General Rita Freitas, whenever INAE temporarily suspends the activity of a commercial establishment and requires the person responsible to find a more suitable location, the TA usually ends up suspending the effectiveness of its decision after an appeal by the trader, thus preventing the effective application of the rules.

"The law is clear. It's about avoiding advertising within 500 meters of schools in relation to the sale of alcoholic beverages and tobacco. It's to avoid selling alcohol in bottle stores near schools, less than 500 meters, the law is clear. We do the work, suspend the activity temporarily and arrange for another location, then they go to the Administrative Court and suspend the effectiveness of the acts," explained Rita Freitas.

Meanwhile, the source added that INAE continues to work tirelessly, but has unfortunately "been very unlucky in relation to the bottle stores, because they appeal and we are able to stay for five years with a suspension of the effectiveness of the acts, only for the court to order the suspension of activity or closure in favor of INAE after five years".

(Photo DR)