Doctors Nova Scotia joins voices opposed to expanding booze sales in N.S.

Nova Scotia Considers Expanding Alcohol Sales Despite Doctor’s Concerns

The Nova Scotia government has recently concluded consultations to decide whether to allow the sale of alcohol in more locations, such as grocery and corner stores. This potential move has raised concerns among medical professionals, particularly Doctors Nova Scotia, who believe that the expansion of alcohol sales could lead to significant harm.

A group of 14 physicians specializing in addiction medicine penned an open letter to Finance Minister John Lohr, expressing their worries about the existing alcohol-related deaths in Nova Scotia, which already amount to over 500 per year. The president of Doctors Nova Scotia, Dr. Shelly McNeil, emphasized their opposition to broadening alcohol availability due to the potential long-term costs and adverse health impacts associated with increased alcohol consumption.

While breweries and wineries have participated in the consultations and support the expansion, organizations like the Retail Council of Canada and the Canadian Federation of Independent Business have also voiced their approval, citing potential economic benefits and consumer convenience. However, Doctors Nova Scotia remains steadfast in their opposition, highlighting the negative consequences that could arise from easier access to alcohol.

Dr. McNeil pointed to Ontario as an example where expanded alcohol sales resulted in a 17% increase in hospital visits linked to alcohol-related issues. If a similar trend were to occur in Nova Scotia, it could lead to an additional 7,600 emergency department visits annually, further straining an already overburdened healthcare system.

In Nova Scotia, alcohol is predominantly sold through NSLC stores, agency stores in rural areas, private stores in Halifax, and establishments owned by alcohol producers. Dr. McNeil expressed concerns about the potential for increased access to alcohol in less regulated locations, which could facilitate underage drinking. She also highlighted the health risks associated with alcohol consumption, including various cancers, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic illnesses.

Additionally, societal issues such as intimate partner violence and impaired driving were mentioned as potential consequences of expanded alcohol sales. Despite the government’s positive strides in healthcare, Doctors Nova Scotia fears that allowing more alcohol sales could undermine the progress made in recent years.

While Doctors Nova Scotia submitted their concerns in writing during the consultations, Dr. McNeil urged policymakers to engage directly with physicians to gain a deeper understanding of the potential impacts. The Finance Department is currently reviewing feedback from the consultations and will determine the next steps regarding alcohol sales expansion, with no definitive timeline provided for a decision.

As Nova Scotians await further updates on this contentious issue, the debate between economic interests and public health concerns continues to unfold.