OLIOLI WINE UNDER THE MICROSCOPE
By: Nanai Taofiga Laveitiga Tuiletufuga
Skyline Company Ltd.’s Olioli Wine production line at Vaitele will not re-open until the Liquor Board and the appropriate regulatory government agencies are satisfied that the company complies with local laws and regulations.
The assurances was made by Minister for Customs and Revenue, (MCR) Tialavea Fea Leniu Tionisio Hunt in respond to concerns raised by Members of Parliament during the budget debate yesterday morning.
The Olioli Wine is in the limelight after MCR moved in and shut down their production line due to alleged tax law infringements and allegations that the product’s alcohol level violated local laws. As a result, it’s further alleged that the wine is potent and will endanger the wellbeing and lives of consumers and public.
Responding to the allegations, MCR stepped to issue hefty fines against Skyline Company Ltd with the wine production line closed down. Subsequently the investigation launched includes re-analysis by the Scientific Research Organisation of Samoa, (SROS) to determine if the Olioli Wine complies with the 15% alcohol content
Elaborated Tialavea;
“We are investigating the wine’s operation and would like to assure the public that the concerns for their wellbeing is not taken lightly.
“At the same time, there is also no truth to claims that the company is receiving preferential treatment from Government.
“Rest assured that paramount to Government is the wellbeing and safety of the public. And if our people’s safety is compromised as a result of any wine or liquor, MCR will not hesitate to take lawful actions.”
To date, MCR has fined Skyline complemented with the shutdown of the wine operations to await the outcome of the on-going probe.
