IN MANY parts of the world, or at least First World countries, the vaccination rates have reached a high enough level that we can return to an almost normal life.
There are still some restrictions on travel. Mask wearing is required in some circumstances and those that are not double-vaccinated are excluded from some venues and activities.
The last item, some exclusions, is causing trouble when a group of people might go out for a meal and those that cannot prove their double vaccinated status or medical exemption are denied entry. They would be disappointed, but it is for the benefit of the majority as well as themselves.
The problem that is occurring is that some of the excluded are resorting to yelling and even violence as a result and trying to force their way in or attacking people.
From personal observation, most of the “gatekeepers” are young employees with no real authority or means of stopping these people. As this has been reported in the media, a number of people including politicians are suggesting that all restrictions should be removed to prevent these conflicts although allowing for a higher chance of COVID being spread.
Since when should bullies get their way and have their poor behavior supported by politicians? Don’t let them get their way. Basically Vax-Up or stay out.
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King Canute couldn’t stop the tide
King Canute was a British ruler who was considered almost godly by his people, so in order to dispel this he sat at the edge of the ocean and commanded the waves to stop coming in. He got wet feet.
The Australian government is going to try and stop the tidal wave of online abuse by trolls using social media. They will introduce legislation that will require social media companies to reveal the details of trolls so that those attacked can sue for defamation. If they won’t or can’t provide the information then the companies can be sued instead.
Although the basic idea is good – to expose the hidden keyboard warriors – the reality isn’t so simple. Many people are able to use fake emails or spoof email addresses as is shown daily by the emails I get from government offering to give me massive amounts of money for a small fee.
On the assumption that they then move to sue Instagram, Facebook or any of the other social media platforms, it is unlikely the small individual will be able to match the legal resources of any massive company.
It will be “David versus Goliath” again but without a slingshot being available and I think the government will get wet feet too. (dfitzger@melbpc.org.au)/PN
