Police decline beer discounts

Montreal policemen were quick to turn down an offer for discount beer this week. The promotional campaign, offered in conjunction with Labatt, gives Quebec security personnel a rebate of $1 on a case of 12 and $2 on a case of 24 Labatt Blue, Blue Dry or Blue Light, upon presentation of a special rebate card.

More than 35,000 of the cards were distributed to help raise money for the 2005 World Police and Firefighter Games in Quebec City, Labatt officials said. For every case sold through the promotion, 50 cents or $1 will go toward the games.

“We will not be using the cards,” Montreal police force spokesperson Steve Morrisette said. “It’s against our code of ethics to receive privileges in exchange for our status as police officers.”

The Surete du Quebec and RCMP also said they would not be taking part.

One of the creators of the promotional campaign was surprised. “I didn’t expect this, frankly,” said Pierre-Michel Bouchard, chairperson of the board of directors of the games’ organizing committee. “It’s a bona fide effort to increase interest in these activities.”

While some police will be passing on the offer, firefighters will be able to particpate. “We’ve had similar deals with the breweries for years,” including $2 rebates on cases of beer, Montreal firefighters union chief Daniel de Cesare said. “The only thing that’s changed is the brewery.”

Funds raised through deals with sponsors go toward charities, he said. Officials stressed that alcohol on the job is not tolerated.

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