There’s an easy way for Premier Doug Ford to help folks out during the LCBO strike: Just let private retailers sell all liquor products, at least during the strike.

It’s easy to do. And it happens all over Canada and around the world. Alberta and Saskatchewan let local businesses serve their thirsty neighbours.

The rules are silly anyway. Right now, the LCBO gets the inside track on some products and other retailers get to sell other things. Why? What’s the difference between selling a six-pack, a bottle of wine or a mickey of rye?

This is a perfect opportunity to see what people like best. Maybe they’ll like being able to pick up a bottle from a local business that stays open a little later. Or maybe the union’s right and people will remain staunchly committed to government stores. This is the perfect time to find out.

Ontarians can still get beer at the Beer Store and wine at the Wine Rack. If Ford allows grocery stores to sell all other forms of alcohol, the LCBO could go on strike until the Leafs finally win the Stanley Cup and Ontarians won’t miss out on a single cocktail.

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