Ed Stalmach's government issued legislation that stymies the growth of all underage performers in Alberta. The statements made by Marilyn Carlyle-Helms clearly indicate that there have been NO incidents of any kind involving a minor at ANY bar or lounge. Please read the article below and show you care by supporting this cause.

For the good of Alberta's young performers, we urge you to contact the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission to voice your concerns regarding this biased blanket policy.

The letter below this newspaper article is the official response I received after writing the Solicitor General. The primary reason for rescinding the permits for minors to perform in Class A (no minors) licensed premises is their concerns regarding increased violence in bars.

I find this interesting after reading the comments from the spokesperson of the AGLC board, Marilyn Carlyle-Helms. She said.

1) "There were never complaints made about allowing underage musicians to play in bars"

2) "There were no incidents in bars that involved, or indirectly affected an underage youth".

Let's review here

A) there were 350 permits issued in 2006 by the AGLC allowing minors to perform in bars,

B) there have been no incidents of violence of any kind relating to, or involving underage performers being in the bars.

Our Solicitor General is basing his decision on information that is not totally accurate regarding Alberta's young performers. It's a blanket policy to protect minors from working in the kitchens of bars and strip clubs as dishwashers, and such.

 

I agree with not allowing minors to work full, or part time in those types of venues. I do not agree with the blanket policy approach as it has denied young performers an opportunity to advance in their profession.

Prior to the ban, all permits issued by the AGLC for underage performers required

A) parental consent

B) the minor had to be accompanied by an adult the entire time they were in the venue

C) a minor was only allowed in the venue while they were on stage performing and had to exit the premise immediately following their performance.

Visit Alberta's Musicial Community and lend your support at The Musicians Lounge

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