Quebec Is Giving $5.3 Million To Certain Businesses So They Can Afford Liquor Permits

The Quebec government has announced new funding for businesses that serve alcohol on-site and have been forced to close down due to red zone closures in the province, according to an October 16 announcement.

These businesses include bars, restaurants, clubs, breweries and video lottery terminals. 

The total funding is estimated at $5.3 million and the assistance — in the form of reimbursements — will directly reduce annual license fee bills by the equivalent of four months.

This covers mid-March to mid-June, as well as the additional month-long shutdown, announced on September 28. 

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$5.3 Million In financial compensation for alcohol licensees

The government statement says this move provides financial compensation to more than 16,400 liquor permit holders and licensees across the province.

"The measure provides quick and fair financial compensation to alcohol licensees who have suffered significant losses since the beginning of the pandemic," said Minister of Finance Eric Girard.

The funding, which is meant to complement the Aide aux entreprises en région en alerte maximale program, will only be applied to businesses in red zones. 

This article’s cover image was used for illustrative purposes only.