Parramatta’s hoteliers and restaurateurs are being asked to help control alcohol related crime. Parramatta City Council has invited licensees to join the Parramatta Liquor Accord, a set of principles governing alcohol use in and around licensed venues.
The Accord covers responsible alcohol service, improving safety and security, being good neighbours and cooperating with police and the community. It complements existing licensing requirements.
Accord Management Group Chairman, Denis Fitzgerald, said licensees who became members of the Accord would be given brochures and signs to publicise their commitment to responsible alcohol service.
“When we take on liquor licenses we take on a responsibility to serve our community,” Denis Fitzgerald said. “This voluntary agreement underpins those commitments. It ensures we train our staff to identify and deal with drinkers who may become a problem.”
Parramatta Lord Mayor, Paul Garrard, said that police believe a lot of violence and anti-social behaviour was alcohol related.
“This situation deters the ordinary person from enjoying a pleasant night out,” he said. Local hotelier, David Wilson, was one of the first to join the Accord.
“I’m in this because I want my hotel to be known as a good place to have a quiet and safe drink,” he said. “I want to attract the right kind of business and signing the Accord will show people they can have a pleasant, hassle free night here.”
