Saturday, August 30, 2003

BEING DRUNK IN A BAR TO BECOME A CRIME

Being drunk in a pub or club would become illegal and "intoxication" defined formally in state law under proposals by the New South Wales (Australia) alcohol summit. Under the recommendations, patrons - not just publicans - could be penalised for being drunk on licensed premises.

At present, publicans can be fined $2200 if they allow a drunk onto the premises and $5500 if they serve the person. The publican must ask the person to leave, and if he or she refuses, must call the police, who can then fine the drinker for failing to leave. If the patron leaves, he or she incurs no penalty.

A proposed new legal definition of intoxication aims to make it easier for police and bar staff to identify drunkenness.

More here.

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