It is very encouraging to see that the State has recognised the dangers brought about by the uncontrolled reopening of bars and the need to closely monitor operations in this area.
It must be acknowledged that the people who patronise such establishments are not noted for their sense of responsibility. The people who live in the vicinity of these establishments would readily bear testimony to the reprehensible and dangerous behaviour of people who are under the influence of alcohol. More people are injured and killed by accidents involving drunken drivers than any other type of accident.
There is a critical need to establish and maintain controls over this area of social life, and not just in the short term, to ensure that law-abiding citizens are protected from people who are heedless of their own safety, far less that of others. Strict monitoring and control are necessary as we loosen the rigid practices of the recent past.
Whatever actions taken by the state to maintain order in the society will have the support of the vast majority of the nation’s citizens.
Good on you, Mr Minister of Health.
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