Shadow Minister for Major Events, Joshua Burgoyne, has slammed the government’s botched handling of escalating crime in Alice Springs, which has led to the cancellation of Parrtjima events in the mall due to safety concerns.
“This is a devastating blow to the Alice Springs community. Crime and anti-social behaviour is ruining the quality of life for residents in Central Australia, and now crime is ruining the government’s plans for economic recovery.
“The Gunner Labor Government has been on autopilot when it comes to crime. The Chief Minister is refusing to meet with affected residents and businesses owners and refusing to listen to their concerns. Now, because NT Labor can’t get a handle on this escalating crime wave, the Alice Springs community – and tourists – are suffering, once again.
“On one hand the Minister for Tourism, Natasha Fyles, has been spruiking Parrtjima as ‘an incredible draw card for the region’ that ‘continues to draw people to the Red Centre from all over Australia, to see and experience it for themselves’, but on the other hand, can’t guarantee community safety for a public event.
“The community is crying out for immediate action. The Government can reverse its weak bail laws when Parliament sits next week. What’s it going to take for this Chief Minister to admit he got it wrong?” said Mr Burgoyne.