NSW: Police to be firm but fair this NYE in Sydney

AAP General News (Australia)
12-28-2007
NSW: Police to be firm but fair this NYE in Sydney

SYDNEY, Dec 28 AAP - Anti-social behaviour will not be tolerated during Sydney's New
Year's Eve celebrations, say police, but they expect the night to pass largely without
incident.

More than one million people are expected to make their way to the Sydney Harbour foreshore
this year for the traditional fireworks displays.

Assistant Police Commissioner Catherine Burn told reporters "substantial numbers" of
police would patrol the city, the harbour and other metropolitan areas throughout New
Year's Eve and the following morning.

She said officers had been given instructions to be "fair but firm".

"My intent is that we have a safe and secure New Year's Eve celebration, and to do
that I've instructed my officers to take a firm but fair approach to ensure that people
do celebrate, do have a good night," she said.

"However, we will have a heavy police presence and we will be monitoring any unlawful
behaviour or any criminal activity."

Despite the warnings, Ms Burn said she expected the night to pass largely without incident,
as it had done in previous years.

"Last New Year's Eve was a very safe and secure New Year's Eve celebration, and I'm
expecting the same this year."

NSW Transport Minister John Watkins called on revellers to take public transport into
the city to help ease traffic congestion, heightened by a number of road closures.

"On a busy night like New Year's Eve, with potentially one million people on the harbour
foreshore, it's so much easier to leave the car at home," Mr Watkins said.

"Catching public transport means you don't have to worry about parking, traffic jams
or who is going to drive home.

"And with extra [public transport] services running late into the night and early morning,
public transport is the best choice."

Mr Watkins also urged party-goers to plan ahead before leaving home.

"The key messages are to plan ahead ... look after your family and friends, be aware
of the weather, take some extra water ... and have a great night out," he said.

AAP ab/nap/hn/ht/mn

KEYWORD: EVE NSW

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