“We will continue to work with all municipalities that join the critical fight against contraband tobacco,” says OCSA CEO.
The Ontario Convenience Stores Association (OCSA) is pleased to recognize the support of the Vaughan City Council, in passing a motion against contraband tobacco at their meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 11.
The motion requests that City Council write a letter to the Ontario Minister of Finance encouraging the Government of Ontario to follow through on promises to increase resources in the fight against contraband tobacco.
“The distribution and sale of contraband tobacco is a growing concern in Vaughan. Given the proximity to Highway 401 and 400, Vaughan has become a stop along these trafficking routes, frequently used by those looking to sell contraband. This problem that was once limited to Eastern Ontario, is spreading into other parts of the province,” said Dave Bryans, CEO of the Ontario Convenience Stores Association. “We would like to thank members of Council for their support and we will continue to work with all municipalities that join the critical fight against contraband tobacco.”
Vaughan area retailers and members of the OCSA look forward to seeing a reduction of contraband products following the recent commitments in the Ontario budget.
“As the government looks to follow through on Budget commitments to stop contraband tobacco, support from all levels of government will be critical in helping protect the safety of our communities, and to ensuring that age-restricted products don’t wind up in the hands of Ontario’s young people,” said Bryans.
The OCSA has been engaging municipalities throughout Ontario in its anti-contraband tobacco campaign for over six months. To date, municipalities representing 43% of Ontarians have passed supportive motions.
The OCSA represents more than 7,000 convenience store operators throughout the province who are committed to Responsible Community Retailing. More than three million people visit convenience stores in communities across Ontario every day.