Councillor calls to stamp out sexual assaults with mandatory training for Wellington bar staff

April 19, 2018

Sexual assault prevention training could become a mandatory part of alcohol licensing regulation for Wellington hospitality staff.

Concillor Fleur Fitzsimons is working with groups, including the police and council-owned venues, to stamp out sexual violence in the the capital.

"I am keen to look at alcohol regulation. It is the most commonly used drug to facilitate sexual violence," Ms Fitzsimons told the Dominion Post.

The councillor cited recent incidents such as the Homegrown music festival - where five people allege they were sexually assaulted - as proof the council needed to enforce better alcohol regulation.

Ms Fitzsimons said while there is no council funding being channelled into her proposal, it has been accepted as part of the council's long-term plan.

Detective Sergeant Ben Quinn, who is part of Wellington Adult Sexual Assault team, said police are currently working on initiatives to help combat sexual assault in the city centre.

"Alcohol is a significant contributing factor in many of the reports of sexual harassment and assault reported at central city premises," Sergeant Quinn told the Post.

The training will educate bar and security staff around how to handle instances of sexual assault on patrons.

"Anything which helps people identify and support those who are potentially at risk of being a victim of sexual offending is an extremely positive initiative, and something police is keen to support as a prevention tool," he said.




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