By Andrew Starke
The Liberal-National Opposition’s only contribution to the alcohol debate has been to incite people to drink irresponsibly in the Docklands precinct, according to Consumer Affairs Minister, Tony Robinson.
Opposition MP Matthew Guy raised Robinson’s ire by labelling Docklands “Melbourne’s new ‘Piss-up Precinct’” on the online social networking site Twitter.
Robinson said the comments were offensive to residents and businesspeople in the area and incited people to go to the Docklands and drink to excess.
“These immature comments from Mr Guy on his Twitter account are symbolic of an Opposition that stands for nothing and opposes everything,” Robinson said.
“Instead of making a meaningful contribution to the debate around liquor licensing, all Mr Guy and the Opposition have done is oppose government measures and serve up this sort of nonsense on Twitter.
“All Mr Guy has done is to put the Twit back into Twitter with his comments that incite people to drink irresponsibly in the Docklands precinct.”
The verbal sparring began after Victorian Premier John Brumby flagged a tightening of rules for licensed premises.
This followed the state’s planning tribunal, The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, approving a 1500-person capacity club in south Melbourne and a 750-person capacity venue in Docklands, allegedly without the Premier’s knowledge.
The Victorian Government is concerned that its investment in tackling alcohol abuse in communities may be undermined by judicial decisions.
Robinson said the Opposition had spoken out against or opposed a range of Government actions to address excessive drinking and alcohol related crime.
To comment, click here.