[Greens-Media] Upper House backs Greens trial for new liquor law

[Lee Rhiannon]

MEDIA RELEASE
3 December 2008


Upper House backs Greens trial for new liquor law

The state's new liquor law will undergo a 12 months trial following an Upper House vote for a Greens amendment that requires the Government to evaluate the effectiveness of new measures designed to reduce alcohol related violence Greens MP Lee Rhiannon said.

"This trial is necessary as we need to ensure that the new liquor law works in reducing alcohol fuelled crime," said Ms Rhiannon.

"The Greens amendment was passed with the support of government MPs. The Coalition opposed the trial and the whole bill. 

"The Greens would not support a blanket ban imposing 2 am lockouts and other measures on all hotels.
 
"This liquor law trial is needed so evidence can be collected on what works in reducing alcohol related violence. 

"People still have a right to enjoy themselves when they go out and the Greens amendment that sets up the trial will help get the balance right.

"Visitors and residents should be able to stay out late, visit entertainment precincts at all hours and enjoy themselves without fear of harassment or assault from heavily intoxicated people.

"Residents also should be able to enjoy their own environment without fear of assault, harassment, property damage and excessive noise from intoxicated people.

"It is pleasing that Premier Rees reversed his earlier opposition to the trial. Last week when I introduced the same amendment to another liquor bill the Government and opposition voted against the trial. 

"Now the Government will have to closely evaluate any new measures to ensure they meet the stated aims of reducing alcohol violence on our streets.

"The Premier must still address the emphasis the Liquor Act places on individuals rather than cracking down on the big hotel operators who profit from the binge drinking that fuels alcohol related violence," said Ms Rhiannon.


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