Anne Tolley National MP

29 March 2001

Councils need help to control drunken louts

National MP Anne Tolley today lodged a Private Members Bill that will give local communities the power to ban alcohol in public areas of their towns or cities.

"Public outrage at the behaviour of drunken louts in places like Nelson, Gore and Napier over the summer was the catalyst for this bill.

"I have been working with Nelson MP Nick Smith, and Clutha-Southland MP Bill English to develop this Bill. We have all heard stories from constituents about the impact the behaviour of drunken louts has had on them or their families' enjoyment of public places over summer.

"Currently the law only allows an alcohol ban for short 'one-off, special' events. Bans cannot be imposed for extended periods such as throughout Christmas and New Year.

"Over recent years drunken louts have spoilt the downtown environment and public festivals. Councils have been hamstrung when trying to resolve the problem. This Bill enables councils to consult with the community and designate alcohol-free areas for special times, or on a more permanent basis.

"The Bill will also allow police to confiscate alcohol from anyone abusing the ban - a move which will help stop behaviour getting out of control at an early stage," Mrs Tolley said.

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