Crowd images show Territorians crying out for more freedoms, says Territory Alliance leader Terry Mills
TERRITORIANS are crying out for more freedoms after images of crowds in national parks and on Darwin’s Mitchell Street emerged from the weekend, says Territory Alliance leader Terry Mills
Northern Territory
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TERRITORY Alliance leader Terry Mills said Territorians are crying out for more freedoms after pictures of crowds in close proximity in national parks and on Darwin’s Mitchell Street emerged from the weekend.
Mr Mills said the fact people are flocking to enjoy the Territory’s previously prohibited activities show the government should “show confidence” to increase freedoms, including the opening of borders.
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“They’ve (Territorians) done a really good job to manage the objective which was to manage the curve,” he said.
“That to me illustrates the need to increase freedoms and reduce restrictions.
“They (the NT Government) seem to be playing their cards way too close to their chests, but they are were expecting the government to show some confidence towards being able to deal with the next step.”
He said other states, especially South Australia and Western Australia, should be able to enjoy what the Territory has to offer.
“It would be a wise move to develop sensible protocols for people from outside...and give people from WA and SA time to plan to get up here,” Mr Mills said.
Australian Medical Association NT President Dr Robert Parker said it was important social disrancing measures were maintained in the NT despite the lack of community transmission of COVID-19.
“There appears to be no local spread but it is a very tricky virus this one,” he said.
“If you get one person coming in it can spread like wildfire if social distancing is abolished.
Dr Parker said: “if the Government has warnings about social distancing they need to be enforced.”
When asked to comment, Chief Minister Michael Gunner still would not gave a date as to when borders will open.
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“The Territory is the safest and freest place in Australia, and it hasn’t happened by accident. We acted early to secure the borders and Territorians have been the best at staying safe,” he said.
“I’m asking Mr Mills to quit making reckless comments on the run that go against the expert health advice. “
Mr Gunner said last month he would begin conducting weekly reviews on the borders from June 15.
Originally published as Crowd images show Territorians crying out for more freedoms, says Territory Alliance leader Terry Mills