Baz Annetts’ support of late night trading of hotels and his hostile criticism of David Cocks’ letter seems unreasonable, unless Mr. Annetts enjoys late night drinking at hotels. (Rose coloured glasses, May 24)
I agree with David Cocks (Drinking sense, May 17) His experience is similar to mine in Sydney in the 50s and 60s. Some men still got drunk but there were fewer teenage brawls, abusive language, and teenagers and young adults ‘driving under the influence’.
I realise that restricting alcohol is only part of the solution and individuals must be responsible for their actions. The problem is exacerbated by a lack of concern and discipline by over-indulgent parents.
Recently, in the St George area of Sydney, the owner of a hotel which was open till 2am, had the nerve to apply for a 4am hour trading licence. There was a big hue and cry by residents who were sick of hoons urinating on their front garden or brawling and swearing in the early hours of the morning, so the licence was temporarily restricted.
The hotel is situated on a main road and during the daytime there are no problems but it is a different scene in the evening and early hours of the morning. The trouble has worsened over the years and property values have dropped in the area surrounding the hotel.
In regard to the people Mr Annetts was concerned about who work shift hours; surely they are able to buy a drink at a hotel or licenced restaurant when they are not working. They can also buy alcohol and drink it at home, like many people do.
Mr Annetts might think differently if he lived in the vicinity of one of these late trading hotels and had his property damaged. It is he who has ‘rose coloured glasses’ if he expects David Cocks and others to put up with this bad behaviour.
Lesley Chapman
via email
