VANCOUVER, BC - The Green Party of Vancouver welcomes the opening of select parks for responsible outdoor alcohol consumption starting July 12th until October 11th, between the hours of 11am and 9pm. This follows Green Party Commissioner Dave Demers introducing and passing a motion early in his term, which led the Park Board last year to allow drinking in 22 public parks. Implementation was delayed until necessary changes were passed by the provincial government to the language of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act.

“Many people do not have a balcony or garden where they can enjoy the outdoors and have a drink with friends,” said Commissioner Demers. “During a time of social isolation and anxiety, supporting safe access to outdoors space is very important to our community. While there will always be some who act irresponsibly, I believe the majority of residents can be trusted with this initiative.”

During the 2018 election Demers proposed implementing a pilot project to allow limited alcohol consumption in select parks and beaches. Other municipalities, such as in North Vancouver, Port Coquitlam, and Delta, have also moved to allow responsible alcohol consumption in public spaces. Last year Vancouver city council approved a pilot project to permit drinking in four designated public plazas from mid-August to mid-October.

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Background

Alcohol in parks pilot, July 7, 2021

Green Party of Vancouver welcomes legislative changes to allow Park Board to regulate drinking in parks, April 29, 2021

Drinking in select Vancouver green spaces, beaches approved by park board, July 28, 2020

Booze on the beach concept heading to Vancouver park board, December 12, 2018

Green Party park board candidate calling for booze on the beach in Vancouver, September 19, 2018