Guzman Y Gomez fined for serving vodka to a minor
Mexican restaurant chain Guzman Y Gomez felt the wrath of the Liquor & Gaming Authority after it was found to have served alcohol to a minor.
Two undercover police officers observed a 16-year-old exiting the Dee Why franchise with what appeared to be the alcoholic beverage.
It was later found the staff member who served the drink failed to check identification.
NSW Police then issued an infringement notice to the restaurant licensee, while NSW Liquor and Gaming imposed “two strikes” to the venue’s manager.
The watchdog has a statewide “three strikes and you’re out” demerit point scheme. If a venue incurs multiple demerit points within a three-year period, it can face disqualification or have its liquor license suspended.
Guzman Y Gomez called the incident was regrettable.
“Unfortunately in May, a minor was served alcohol at our Dee Why restaurant after a crew person did not follow Guzman Y Gomez’s strict response service of alcohol procedures,” a Guzman Y Gomez spokeswoman said.
“Two undercover police officers were outside the restaurant at the time who intercepted the minor and interviewed the managers on duty. Guzman Y Gomez takes this incident very seriously (and) we fully support the actions taken by the police.
“The infringement notice has been paid in accordance with the requirements of the notice.”
The franchise has disciplined the staff member.
“Communication (were also) sent to all employees at the time to remind them of the responsibility to ensure alcohol is served in accordance with the law and under the responsible service of alcohol guidelines,” she said.
“As a business, Guzman Y Gomez has strict policies and procedures in place relating to the supply and service of alcohol.
“Guzman Y Gomez takes the responsible service of alcohol very seriously and remains committed to ensuring our crew and restaurants adhere to both the legal and Guzman Y Gomez procedures and guidelines.”
Fifteen venues across NSW have been issued demerit points for serving alcohol to minors in the last two years.
Jonathan Jackson, 2nd October 2023
