ST. JOHN'S, N.L. — In a social media post on July 19, The Dockyard restaurant wrote that the city had shut down the operation because of residential zoning.
“The city is killing small business,” read a part of the brief post.
The outdoor courtyard area faces Harbour Drive and overlooks the harbour, and it’s the kind of establishment Mayor Danny Breen said is “good for the downtown.”
Breen was on vacation Wednesday but arrived at the conclusion of the committee of the whole meeting at City Hall to address reporters because he said there’s been misconceptions in media reports indicating the city shut down the outdoor lounge.
“That was actually done by the Newfoundland Liquor Corporation (NLC), according to their rules and regulations,” he said.
"We have a regulatory responsibility, and we work with the property owners to make sure that they happen as quickly as possible.” — Danny Breen
In an email to The Telegram, an NLC spokesperson said they were acting upon information provided to its regulatory services department that the premises was operating an unapproved patio.
“The inspector advised the manager that it was operating without a licence and informed the manager that sale and consumption must cease immediately and all product must be returned to the licensed premises,” the spokesperson wrote.
The inspector cited two violations: allowing alcohol to be removed from a licensed premises, and unapproved alterations/renovations.
“NLC will work with the establishment through the licensing process once the appropriate approvals have been met for consideration.”
Meanwhile, Breen said the city is also working with the restaurant owner to process an occupancy permit.
“The requirements for the occupancy permit have to be met. So, that’s the issue that we’re dealing with,” he said.
Breen also said ensuring the outdoor seating area is an appropriate use for the zone is another thing the city has to address.
“We’re looking at a myriad of issues that are required, and so we’re working through with the owner on that.”
Still, Breen reiterated that it was the NLC who shut down the operation, not the city.
“We’re trying to do our best. … We have a regulatory responsibility, and we work with the property owners to make sure that they happen as quickly as possible.”
Twitter: @juanitamercer_
