Save the CBDs

The Post reports:

The Government is considering a crackdown on inner-city homelessness.

Rumours of an impending move to criminalise homelessness emerged earlier this week, prompting Opposition MPs to question Prime Minister Christopher Luxon in the House about incoming legislation.

Luxon, on Tuesday, said there were no Cabinet decisions or discussion on the topic of banning people homelessness in central business districts.

But on Wednesday it became clear Government ministers have been considering an intervention, possibly in the form of a “move on” law, to shift problematic behaviour out of city centres, particularly a “bedraggled” Auckland.

Those who choose to sleep on the streets often have intensive drug and/or alcohol problems. There is no easy magic fix that will cure them.

But having them sleep and live in front of businesses in CBDs creates victims. Potential shoppers and staff feel intimidated, especially if asked for money. Some of their behaviour, influenced by drugs and alcohol, is threatening. They cost businesses money and custom, and make people avoid going into city centres.

So giving the Police the power to move those on who have problematic behaviour is a good thing, in my opinion.