NSW premier caught in awkward pub moment on Freedom Day
Like thousands of residents on Monday, Premier Dominic Perrottet celebrated 'Freedom Day' in NSW by enjoying his first beer back at the pub in over 100 days.
However, a photo of the premier with Treasurer Matt Kean and Deputy Premier Paul Toole standing up while drinking in a pub has left people scratching their heads, as it appears he's breaching public health orders.
While establishments have opened their door to patrons, the guidelines from NSW Health state: “People must be seated to consume alcohol in indoor areas”, with many arguing it makes the premier's photo worthy of a fine.
According to news.com.au, Mr Perrottet's office insists the bar wasn‘t open and the photo was taken from a media event at Watson’s pub in Moore Park.
The publication also reported that the premier won't be receiving a fine for his vertical consumption.
Mr Perrottet spoke to the media about restrictions in NSW easing on Monday, reminding people to treat workers with respect, as the state opened up for the first time in 15 weeks.
"It's been a difficult 100 days but the efforts that people have made right across the state, to go out, to get vaccinated, has enabled this great day," he said.
And yes: the NSW Health website clearly states:
“People must be seated to consume alcohol in indoor areas.”
So that’s a fine, then, for the NSW Premier and Treasurer. @Dom_Perrottet and @Matt_KeanMP
RT if you agree. https://t.co/ovDcBU1dJJ— Mike Carlton (@MikeCarlton01) October 11, 2021
"There are going to be challenges, we know that. I ask again everyone right across our state to treat everyone with kindness and respect, take personal responsibility.
"There's no doubt there will be teething issues but there will be many young people pulling beers today, serving tables at restaurants and cafes, who will be doing this for the first time and adjusting to a new system. So please be patient and look out for them as we move through this period of time."
Dan Andrews fined for Covid breaches
While Perrottet may have escaped unscathed, Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews wasn't so lucky – he was fined $400 for breaching coronavirus restrictions after he failed to wear a mask as he arrived at parliament on two occasions last week.
Police on Friday confirmed they had issued two $200 infringement notices after footage emerged of Mr Andrews walking without a face mask as he arrived at parliament on Wednesday and Thursday.
On both days, Mr Andrews wore a mask as he was driven to parliament but took it off before he walked through the car park.
In a statement, Mr Andrews said he encouraged Victoria Police to investigate and penalise him if necessary.
“I am aware that as I approached two press conferences at the back of Parliament House this week I removed my mask after leaving the car, before I walked to the back doors,” he said.
“I expect Victoria Police to assess this and if they choose to issue a fine, of course I will pay it.“
with AAP
