Coralee Oakes, Minister of Small Business and Red Tape Reduction and Minister Responsible for the Liquor Distribution Branch, has issued the following statement on the occasion of the 39th Vancouver International Wine Festival, which opens Feb. 11th, 2017:

For the sixth year in a row British Columbia is leading the pack when it comes to cutting red tape to make government programs and services easier to use.

B.C. hotels and resorts with a bar, pub or restaurant on site will soon be able to allow their guests to carry unfinished liquor from their licensed establishment directly to their rooms, a move that provides flexibility for businesses and increases convenience for British Columbians and visitors to the province.

British Columbia’s licensed restaurants, bars, manufacturer lounges and caterers will be able to age and infuse liquor in order to create their own unique craft cocktails as part of the Province’s ongoing efforts to modernize liquor policies.

BC Liquor Stores is hosting its Premium Spirits Release on Nov. 5, 2016, at locations throughout the province where a diverse selection of unique spirits, including rare whiskies, scotches and bourbons, will go on sale.

With the launch of the BC Ale Trail, tourists and craft beer enthusiasts have a new definitive guide to exploring B.C.’s craft beer scene and local sightseeing attractions.

Premier Christy Clark announced $100,000 in provincial funding for the Women’s Enterprise Centre (WEC) to continue and expand its mentoring programs, helping women throughout British Columbia learn indispensable business skills.

The Province is supporting increased consumer choice and encouraging the growth of B.C. small businesses by modernizing policy to allow any establishment that sells liquor to provide samples in a socially responsible manner.