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Santo Domingo.- Dozens of owners of bars, nightclubs, and alcohol sales centers marched to the Ministry of the Interior and Police, alleging harassment and abuse by authorities. Business owners, particularly those on Venezuela Avenue, claim that despite having all the necessary permits, they face unjust actions that have led to significant financial losses.
The group has called on Interior Minister Faride Raful and Police Director Rafael Guzmán Peralta to engage in dialogue to resolve the growing tensions between their sector and law enforcement. They are urging for a mutual understanding to balance public safety concerns with the ability to conduct their businesses without undue interference.
One of their key proposals includes extending operating hours for liquor stores during the Christmas season. Junior González, president of the Union of Night Clubs and Entertainment, criticized the authorities for allegedly infringing on their rights by shutting down several entertainment venues and hindering operations during the critical pre-holiday period. The sector hopes for an agreement that ensures both business viability and public order.
Harassment? How many of these bars, nightclubs, and alcohol sales centers routinely operate in defiance of rules and regulations exampled by: loud noises-music at all hours, exceeding seating capacity, crowds overflowing into the streets, seating/tables on sidewalks/streets, serving minors, after hours sales, and on and on? When they conform there will be public order.
The Dominican Republic needs to seriously consider legalizing Marijuana. This would reduce the crowd sizes at some of the nightclubs because people would be staying at home and enjoying themselves instead of being in a crowded noisy nightclub getting in fights. In addition it would bring in some much needed tax revenue. Most of these nightclubs are owned by criminals who pay little, if any taxes.
With you 1000% on that. Unfortunately the illegal trade mafia running the show will have immense pushback (aka lots of money put in pockets of politicians) to prevent the legalization from ever happening.