Bad behaviour leads to minimum drink prices in N.S.

CTV HALIFAX -- The Nova Scotia government is setting the minimum price that can be charged for alcoholic drinks by bars. Workforce Development Minister Mark Parent says the increase is aimed at encouraging people to drink responsibly after it held consultations across the province. "The response from civic leaders, health experts and bar owners, to name but a few, has been clear," said Parent. Taverns, bars and lounges can no longer sell beer or alcohol for less than $2.50 per serving, which is considered to be 12 ounces of beer, five ounces of wine or one ounce of spirits. Minimum drink prices have been a source of controversy in the province since several people were arrested last December after a brawl outside a Halifax night club. The minimum price went into effect immediately when it was announced on Friday. Earlier this month, 10 doctors at Dalhousie University Health called for a minimum drink price of $2.50 or $3 because of problems they saw as a result of the over consumption of alcohol on campus. And municipal councillors in the university town of Antigonish called for minimum drink prices. Antigonish Mayor Carl Chisholm said council was worried that bargain beverages could lead to vandalism and fighting, or harm university students who might overindulge.