Solve itinerant problem now

IT’S time to stop pussy-footing around, being politically correct and sweeping the itinerant problem in the Cairns CBD under the carpet.

The issue of mainly indigenous people coming to Cairns from their Cape York communities to get on the booze has been going on for decades.

During that time no-one really has had the guts to tackle the problem.

Back in 1994 former mayor Kevin Byrne arranged for 80 homeless Aborigines living around Cairns to be driven in hired buses 800km north to Lockhart River.

Unfortunately, one of the buses broke down, the secret plan was revealed and controversy reined.

The current situation is not new but it’s time it was resolved once and for all.

People, regardless of their colour, should not be permitted to wander around the city drunk and hassle others.

Talks and an action plan need to involve all stakeholders – indigenous leaders both local and from the Cape, the police, regional council, welfare groups, city traders and the tourism sector.

A change must happen as it is clear the current system is not working.

The gatherings of the itinerants, drinking, swearing and fighting in public, are an appalling sight in the city, especially as we are a highprofile holiday destination.

This is not a racist issue. This is a behavioural problem.

For too long the CBD has been held to ransom by these groups of people, who are not homeless, but refuse to return home.

If they want to stay in Cairns then they must meet the behavioural standards that most of us adhere to.