Effective immediately there is no longer a $200 transaction limit at NWT liquor stores. The limit of six 375ml containers of spirits (mickeys) is still in place.

The restrictions were originally placed on April 16, 2020 as part of the GNWT’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and to support the territory’s balanced approach to managing alcohol. The limitations were enacted to combat overconsumption and bootlegging activities throughout the territory while still ensuring that NWT residents would have safe and reasonable access to alcohol in unrestricted communities.

Through monitoring and analysis of sales data the GNWT has determined that the “mickey” limit should remain, but the $200 transaction limit can be lifted.

Residents of the Northwest Territories are encouraged to have a healthy and responsible attitude toward alcohol consumption.

For more information, please contact the NWT helpline at 1-800-661-0844.

Quote(s)

"The GNWT remains committed to ensuring the safe and responsible regulation and distribution of alcohol in the Northwest Territories. The COVID-19 pandemic emerged quickly and demanded swift and decisive action. However, as the pandemic has evolved, so has our government's response. A year after the imposition of these restrictions, we have determined that the restrictions have neither lead to a reduction in alcohol consumption nor bootlegging activities. Striking a balance between public health and wellness, crime prevention, and business interests is important to the GNWT, and making this change now continues to support those efforts."

- Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Finance

Quick facts

• Restrictions were enacted on April 16, 2020.
• The maximum daily purchase of six 375 ml containers of spirits is still in effect.
• The maximum daily purchase amount of $200 is lifted.
• Substance abuse, bootlegging, and the associated consequences remain issues that negatively affect many of our communities and our residents. The GNWT remains committed to taking a holistic and whole-of-government approach to addressing these complex issues – including the root causes and resulting negative effects and impacts.
• The GNWT is committed to ensuring the safe and responsible regulation and distribution of alcohol in the Northwest Territories.

Links

• https://www.gov.nt.ca/en/newsroom/restrictions-northwest-territories-liquor-sales
• https://www.ntlcc.ca/

For media requests, please contact:

Todd Sasaki
Senior Communications Officer
Department of Finance
Government of the Northwest Territories
Todd_sasaki@gov.nt.ca
1-867-767-9168 ext. 15015