Socialist Alliance candidates for the upcoming local elections are calling for the recently instated curfew to be scrapped. Mayoral candidate Zane Alcorn described the curfew as “a patronising and exaggerated reaction to the behaviour of a minority that is punishing ordinary people”.
The introduction of a 1.00am lock-out and 2.30-3.00am closure of Newcastle’s nightlife was aimed at curbing alcohol fuelled violence. Alcorn says that “We recognise the problem of alcohol related violence – young people want to feel safe when they’re out at night too. But we think there are better ways of dealing with this problem that don’t restrict the freedoms of responsible pub and club patrons. With the possibility of an earlier curfew and closure time being introducecd, where does this end? ”
“We think violence could be curbed more effectively through a pubwatch scheme that ensures rapid, accurate and efficient communication of details about potential problems. This has reduced alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour throughout the British Isles. We would combine this with a free late-night transport system that will ensure people can get from one pub to another or home rather than staying on the streets.”
Candidate for Ward Three Thomas Cameron argues “People are tired having to be extremely wary when wandering between clubs in town, tired of having no trust in their fellow citizens in an otherwise friendly town. Just changing the curfew times doesn’t deal with the roots of this problem. When people feel they can move safely about town, with transport that is free and frequent, we will have a far more vibrant and safe nightlife in Newcastle.”
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