Norman Wells votes to lift liquor restrictions

The people of Norman Wells, N.W.T., voted to lift liquor restrictions in their community Monday night.

To the question 'Do you want to end liquor rationing at the Norman Wells liquor store?' 113 people voted yes, and 101 people voted no.

Liquor restrictions have been in place in the community since the 1970s. Currently, residents can buy two bottles of wine and a case of beer per trip to the liquor store, or one case of beer and a bottle of liquor.

Mayor Dudley Johnson said the results of the vote will now go to the minister of Municipal and Community Affairs (MACA).

"This has to go to the minister for final approval and then we'll keep a close eye on it and see what effect it does have on both the liquor sales and bootlegging or other negative effects that can happen," he said.

Under the Liquor Act, the minister of MACA makes a recommendation to the commissioner based on the results of the plebiscite.