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In a recent statement, NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon has declared that public gatherings will face restrictions in Sydney’s eastern suburbs and select areas of the city’s CBD for the next two weeks, with the exception of Hyde Park.
Commissioner Lanyon emphasized, “This decision strikes a balance between safeguarding public safety and acknowledging the significance of free expression.”
He added, “While the majority of demonstrators have acted responsibly, a small number have incited violence, instilling fear and causing harm.”
Lanyon noted that the visit of the Israeli president to Australia from February 9 to 12 played a role in his decision to extend these restrictions, as protests have been organized in opposition to the visit.
He also mentioned that the Palestinian Action Group’s proposed march for the coming Monday would not have received approval under the prior declaration.
“I know that there is significant animosity about President Herzog’s visit.
“Both on social media and in recent public assemblies, there has been significant animosity.
“To not do anything about that and to potentially put community safety at risk would be intolerable for me as the Commissioner.”
“I can say that over the period of the visit, we’ll have over 3,000 police shifts operating to ensure [community] safety,” Lanyon said.
Today’s extension of the Public Assembly Restriction Declaration (PARD) is an extension of the declaration made on January 20.
During this time, Form 1 applications for the authorisation of public assemblies will not be granted in certain locations.
Individuals who attend in public assemblies at the specific locations during this time will not have the protection of the Summary Offences Act, with respect to obstructing traffic and pedestrians.
Police will also have authority to require removal, for identification purposes, of any face coverings worn by people suspected of committing offences.
The extension will remain in place for the next 14 days, unless changed or revoked.
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