B.C. study to consider liquor at parks, beach

The B.C. Liberals are considering allowing people to bring alcoholic beverages to beaches and parks, according to attorney general Suzanne Anton.

In a statement, Anton detailed her plans for extensive public consultation, though the framework is not yet finalized.

"Our government has an aggressive agenda," she said. "With respect to drinking on beaches and parks and that sort of thing, I know that there are mixed opinions on this and in fact, I encourage municipalities and the public to take advantage of our liquor review and submit their feedback."

Anton says the idea is in the very early stages and is part of the government's plan to modernize liquor laws.

Last year, the province legalized bringing your own wine to restaurants, having alcohol sold in theatres, and allowing caterers to acquire liquor licences.

Last week, Mayor Gregor Robertson said he plans to extend restaurant patio hours in the city, which currently have to close at 11 p.m.

• Vancouver patios could be expanded for later dining

"This is an area that I know many British Columbians have strong feelings towards, one way or another, and it’s critical that our government hears those points of view as we move forward in this process," Anton said.