Calls to fast-track bouncer bill

Renewed calls have been made to fast track legislation to make bouncer training compulsory.

The family of a man who died outside Blenheim's former Copper Bock bar after being restrained by bouncers is being backed by Nelson's coroner in demanding action.

The parents of Cedric Joyce, who died in 2005, are "frustrated and devastated" that legislation to train bouncers continues to languish, saying more people will die unless something is done.

Two Blenheim bouncers were cleared of Mr Joyce's manslaughter by a jury in 2006.

At an inquest into Mr Joyce's death, Nelson coroner Ian Smith asked for the Private Security Personnel and Private Investigators Bill, which would require training of all bouncers, to be fast-tracked through Parliament.

He said he was "extremely disappointed" that the recommendation had yet to be processed, particularly after the death of Blenheim man Matt Heagney, 24, following an incident at Shapeshifters bar in August. It is understood that the co-owner of the bar, Kevin King, is under police investigation in relation to the incident.

"We have got another loss of life that, on the surface of it, could have been prevented with proper training," Mr Smith said.

"It seems an indictment in a town like Blenheim where you have two fatalities. There's potentially something wrong with the setup of bouncers being employed."

The bill was referred to the justice and electoral committee in April. It will report back to the House before March 30 next year.

Mr Joyce's mother, Flo, wondered how many people had to die before "something is done about it".

"[Children] become statistics and for us as a parent, that's very hard to swallow."

Associate Justice Minister Nathan Guy said the bill updated legislation from 1974 and regulated a large and diverse industry, so it would affect a lot of people. A full parliamentary process gave time for interested members of the public to have their say, he said.

Mr Guy said he was unable to comment on whether Mr Heagney's death would speed up the process, because the incident was under investigation.

Labour's associate justice spokesman, Charles Chauvel, said the bill had been shown a "very leisurely timetable", and a regulatory regime should be in place for anyone responsible for public safety.

This would mean an individual would have to be trained or demonstrate that they could manage difficult patrons.

"If you are heading out for a drink, you should really be in a safe environment," he said. "It's part of the host's responsibility."

- The Marlborough Express