TORONTO, Jan. 28 /CNW/ - The McGuinty government has paved the way to

allow Ontarians to bring their own wine to restaurants, Consumer and Business

Services Minister Jim Watson announced today.

    "We are giving consumers and restaurants exciting new choices in

Ontario," said Watson. "The people of Ontario will now have the option to

bring their own bottle of wine and take home unfinished bottles at

establishments that choose to offer these services."

    The new law permits licensed restaurants and banquet rooms in hotels and

motels to allow customers to bring their own bottle of wine. The law also

permits all licensed establishments to allow their customers to remove an

unfinished bottle of wine that they either brought with them or ordered as

part of their meal. Participating establishments can offer both services

starting today.

    "The industry now has a prime opportunity to better serve its diverse

customer base," said Rod Seiling, President of the Greater Toronto Hotel

Association. "These programs offer exciting new choices for licensees and

customers alike, and strike the right balance between improving consumer

choice and encouraging responsible consumption."

    An establishment wishing to offer Bring Your Own Wine (BYOW) must apply

to the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario for an endorsement to its

liquor licence. There is no fee for at least the first year.

    "This initiative offers an excellent marketing tool for restaurants and a

wonderful opportunity for consumers," said Watson. "I'm sure many couples

would love to visit a restaurant with a favourite bottle of wine to celebrate

a special occasion. This is good for restaurants and it is good for

consumers."

    The new legislation also increases public safety by:

    -  Allowing the Registrar of Alcohol and Gaming to immediately suspend a

       liquor licence where there is a threat to public safety.

    -  Doubling the minimum fines for offences related to liquor and underage

       persons. The minimum fine for a licensee has increased from $500 to

       $1,000, and for a non-licensee from $100 to $200.

    -  Creating new offences for failing to leave a premise when required to

       by a police officer, or for returning to a premise the same day after

       being asked to leave by a police officer.

    Participation for eligible establishments is voluntary. Establishments

are allowed to determine and charge a corkage fee for providing BYOW. Patrons

are encouraged to call ahead to inquire whether the restaurant offers the

service.