Conflict at the Sydney anti-Herzog rally was near-inevitable once we gave the state the power to suppress protests |
The Town Hall riot will no doubt be examined closely by NSW police, accountability agencies and likely the criminal courts, as charges against protesters and possibly police are processed.
I decline in its aftermath to engage in the standard political rhetoric; fawning praise for police and strident condemnation of protesters. I have a lot of respect for the work police do and how tough it is. I also have a lot of respect for people who peacefully engage in the political process by protesting. Most people in both groups are decent and good, but not perfect, and all people deserve the benefit of the doubt.
As a member of parliament I try to bring objectivity, because I genuinely feel I represent all people in NSW. In the last three years, for example, that has led me to both consistently defend our police and to consistently stand up for the right to protest.
Many community members however will understandably immediately form a view, take........