A temporary alcohol prohibition order has been put in place in Behchoko.
From July 24 to Aug. 22, individuals cannot consume, purchase, sell or transport liquor within community boundaries.
This includes Rae, Edzo and Frank Channel.
The Community Government of Behchoko issued the order after safety concerns were raised regarding increased levels of alcohol abuse and activity that followed suit, according to a public notice that the government posted.
However, according to Chief Clifford Daniels, no serious incidents really occurred. The notice is intended to help ensure a more sober Tlicho Annual Gathering, which is scheduled for Aug. 16-19.
“The reason we had to put a temporary prohibition order into place is that we have a [Tilcho] annual gathering coming up with a 100-year celebration,” said Daniels. “So, we kind of wanted to make it a sober event, or alcohol-free event. So I think, ahead of time, council decided to ask or request for that order to be put into place, and that will be in place until Aug. 22.”
Daniels added that the order went into effect well in advance of the gathering to give people a chance to be prepared for it.