NSW Labor Leader Jodi McKay is urging Gladys Berejiklian to make face masks compulsory on public transport, in supermarkets and shopping centres and in places of worship.
Ms McKay said: “NSW is on a knife edge. We can’t afford to sleepwalk into a second lockdown. Gladys Berejiklian must take decisive action against the spread of COVID-19 in NSW and make masks compulsory.
“The Premier’s mask recommendation isn’t an instruction. It doesn’t convey the severity of the situation. NSW needs clear directions to keep people safe and keep businesses open.
“Public health orders exist to protect the community. The Premier should use them to stop the spread of the virus and keep the economy moving.”
Ms McKay offered bipartisan support to Gladys Berejiklian to make masks compulsory on public transport, in supermarkets, shopping centres and places of worship: “We know it won’t be popular and there’ll be some push back. But she won’t get any criticism from us if she makes masks compulsory in these settings. I will back her 100 per cent.”
Labor Shadow Minister for Health Ryan Park said: “Australia cannot afford for its two economic engines, NSW and Victoria to stall from COVID-19. The country can’t afford it. The community can’t afford it. Wearing a mask saves lives and saves jobs.
“We’re seeing businesses take the lead on face masks while Gladys Berejiklian issues confusing half measures and recommendations.
“The NSW Government has extraordinary powers to issue health orders so they can act decisively and keep people safe. Gladys Berejiklian should use the health orders to make masks compulsory during the pandemic."
