Liquor accord for Peninsula

The Peninsula could soon have a "liquor accord", according to Member for Peats Ms Marie Andrews.

"This requires the cooperation of all the registered clubs, hotels and liquor outlets in the area," she said.

"I understand this accord is almost ready to be launched."

She said the accord was an initiative of the Peninsula Interagency Taskforce which was established to work out a strategy to combat anti-social behavior, after a "well-publicised incident" which occurred at Umina Beach earlier in the year.

"The stakeholders in this interagency group include the police, Premier's Department, Department of Community Services, Area Health Services, Department of Education and Training, Department of Liquor, Gaming and Racing, Sport and Recreation and Gosford City Council."

Ms Andrews expressed her concerns about recent reports of vandalism and anti-social behaviour occurring on the Woy Woy Peninsula.

"This type of behaviour is not acceptable and I will continue to do everything within my power to ensure that our communities are safe," Ms Andrews said.

"Anti-social behaviour requires a holistic approach, and in this respect the police in our area need our help and support.

"Residents who unfortunately become the victims of acts of vandalism are encouraged to contact the local police or PAL (Police Assistance Line) on 131 444 and report any incidents, no matter how big or small they might be.

"Today (September 29) is Police Remembrance Day, and I would like to thank the police for their hard work and dedication to duty.

"While there are still incidents occurring, I commend the police for a significant reduction in crime on the Peninsula.

"As at July 2006 there were 228 police officers stationed at Brisbane Waters Local Area Command, which covers the Woy Woy Peninsula.

"This is seven officers over the authorised strength of 221 and an increase of 48 officers since 1994, when there were only 173 officers.

"The command is one of the largest in the state.

"Recently I spoke in parliament in support of legislation introduced by the Iemma Government aimed at improving the parenting skills of the primary care givers and encouraging them to accept greater responsibility for the children or young persons in their care.

"Premier Iemma often mentions the Government's Respect and Responsibility plan and these two 'R's are what we need if we are going to see an improvement in anti-social behaviour.

"If a young person has respect for themselves and those people around them, then it follows that they would have respect for others and their property.

"It's as simple as that.

"The vast majority of our young people are good, responsible and caring citizens.

"However, there is a small minority who don't abide by the law and these are the ones who, unfortunately, give young people a bad name."

Press release, September 28 Marie Andrews, Member for Peats