By Staff Writer
The use of glass in high-risk drinking venues in Queensland could be wiped out under State Government moves.
Queensland Premier Anna Bligh has announced that a parliamentary inquiry will be established into alcohol-related violence in the state, and that her Government would aim to have glass cups replaced with plastic vessels by the end of this year in high-risk venues.
The move is in a bid to curb alcohol-related violence and boost public safety.
“Enough is enough – we have to act to stop glass being used as a weapon,” Bligh said.
She released statistics that revealed there were 45 recorded instances of glassings in licensed premises in Queensland since July 1 last year; the majority (64 per cent) took place in hotels and 17 per cent occurred in nightclubs; and the Gold Coast (46 per cent) and Brisbane (28 per cent) were the location for the majority of such incidents in Queensland.
In a media statement, Bligh said the inquiry’s terms of reference should relate to the safety of emergency workers and the financial costs of alcohol-related injury.
“The culture of drinking is something we must seriously review – excessive consumption and violence should not be considered paramount to a good night out,” Bligh said.
“Over time, it’s a culture that has undergone a significant shift.
“Whereas a decade ago, young people might have gone out at 8pm and been home by 1am, they are now increasingly arriving at pubs and clubs after 11pm and drinking until they drop at 5am.
“This culture tends to lead to binge drinking and anti-social behaviour.”
She said there had been “a fundamental breakdown” in the respect young people had for themselves and others, which would be addressed in the inquiry.
The inquiry will canvass the opinions of community leaders, educators, law enforcement officers, medical professionals and the liquor licensing and hotels industry.
It will be referred to the Law, Justice and Safety Committee, which has responsibility for overseeing public safety, emergency services and corrective services.
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