Media Release

Peter Gutwein MP
Liberal Member for Bass

Tuesday 29th December 2009

Gutwein condemns ambulance attacks and calls for restraint on New Year’s Eve

The increasing incidences of violence against our ambulance officers is of serious concern.

We are all likely to interact with our ambulance service at some stage during our lives, and will appreciate the prompt, professional and often life-saving service they provide.

They deserve our thanks and gratitude, not abuse, threats and even violence. There is no place in our society for this type of behaviour towards people who are only doing their job.

On New Year’s Eve please ensure your behaviour is respectful, and please think long and hard before engaging in anti-social behaviour of any kind.

I am aware of one local council that has taken the extraordinary step of hiring its own security gaurds for New Year’s Eve to limit violence, vandalism and anti social behaviour occurring in one of its New Year hot spots.

Whilst I commend the council for getting on the front foot and being proactive, I would call on people to behave appropriately and enjoy the evening rather than ruin it by engaging in behaviour that causes harm to others or their property.

On New Year’s Eve please show respect to others who are out either socialising or just doing their job such as the Ambos, the Police or security and bar staff and importantly make certain that everyone can start 2010 in the best possible way.