EDITORIAL: Bring on the punishment

Editorial & Letters|Friday, Apr 27 2012 | Free article|Subscribe for full access

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TEXT THE EDITOR3

Dry areas have emerged as necessary restrictions in many public areas.

Yes, Australia is fast becoming a nanny state, as evidenced by an almost endless supply of examples in recent years, ranging from the explosion in red tape to the attempted muzzling of the media.
And yes, having dry areas is merely another regulation under which we must live our increasingly controlled lives.
But unfortunately, although most people can be relied upon to behave appropriately when consuming alcohol in public places - such as Barmera's lake front – the small percentage who cannot must have limitations and restraints.
Most people can live with the dry areas, even though it may be an inconvenience for those who have played no part in the circumstances warranting the introduction of 'no drinking’ zones.
It is yet another example of the minority negatively influencing the lives of the blameless majority.
However, the words ‘dry zone’ have a certain family-friendly appeal that many people would welcome, and local examples suggest they are working well.
So bring on the dry areas, but also bring on the policing and punishment of those who make it necessary to employ such measures.