Sydney’s iconic fireworks are now up for grabs as rail strikes raise safety concerns for thousands of revelers using public transport on New Year’s Eve.
Police Commissioner Karen Webb said she could not rule out canceling the fireworks if 250,000 people who rely on public transport were unable to return home safely.
“I have serious concerns,” he told reporters in Sydney on Friday.
‘Every year we police New Year’s Eve on the basis that 250,000 people can enter the city and then leave it safely. Getting out of the city relies on access to transportation, including the train. And if there are no trains available and people can’t get out of the city, I’m very concerned about the risk that that will create for the public because families won’t be able to get home and will be trapped in the city. No Exit.
“I do not rule out recommending the government cancel the fireworks. It is that serious.
The important update comes after the Federal Court dismissed the NSW government’s technical argument seeking to invalidate industrial action on Thursday afternoon.
More to come.
Sydney’s iconic fireworks are now up for grabs as rail strikes raise safety concerns for thousands of revelers using public transport on New Year’s Eve (last year’s are pictured).