Launceston pubs and clubs are struggling to enforce social distancing measures, despite the efforts of staff and Tasmania Police.
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Officers spent last Friday and Saturday night arresting a number of Launceston patrons for disorderly conduct, with plans for more CBD patrols this weekend.
Northern Commander Brett Smith said while pubs and hotels were able to welcome patrons, some restrictions remained in place, including social distancing.
"Friday night was a problem, but the pubs and hotels were better managed on the Saturday night," Commander Smith said.
"Everyone has got a role to play, and we are here to work with businesses to ensure everyone follows the rules.
"We would much prefer everyone enjoy their night, but not at the risk of others.
"There are still restrictions, so slow down on the drinking, and enjoy your night responsibly."
Last weekend also marked Stage 3 of easing the state's COVID-19 restrictions, which included allowing one person per two square metres at Tasmanian venues.
But for pubs, bars and nightclubs, patrons were still required to stay seated - no dancing allowed.
Ahead of what's expected to be an even busier weekend, The Commercial Hotel owner Garry Laskey said it was impossible for venues to ensure every patron was abiding by the rules.
"When the government tells you you can open up your business to a two-square metre rule, it means we could have 200 people in our venue," he said.
"We didn't, we capped it down to about 150, but we still we had major problems with social distancing.
"The venue doesn't need to be responsible for every single person who comes in, like school children, needing to tell them to sit down.
"We are not school teachers, but that's exactly what we are doing now - telling people to sit down."
It is understood one Launceston pub failed to enforce social distancing measures last weekend, with an entrance left unmanned and large groups of people entering the venue throughout the night.
While no venues were fined, police spoke with a number of owners and managers about their COVID-safe plans.
All Tasmanian businesses must comply with directions issued by the Director of Public Health and are also required to prepare a COVID-19 Safety Plan to prove they are meeting new minimum safety standards.
Mr Laskey said after experiencing some issues with patrons on Friday night, they had since increased security, signage and cleaning measures.
However, he said it was unfair that the onus of responsibility falls solely on the business owner who is required to enforce the measures.
"When the government put these things in place they shouldn't look at the venues being the problem of this happening," he said.
"I am sure if they wanted to they could fine every venue in town, but the police and WorkSafe are understanding of what we are dealing with and the situation.
"We only supply the venue. If you are going to the pub this weekend to have a few beers, that's fine.
"But just be aware that you need to be seated and you need to abide by social distancing. We have the space to allow for that."
Small Business Minister Sarah Courtney said it was everyone's responsibility - patrons and owners alike - to ensure adequate social distancing across the community.
"The last thing we want in Tasmania is a second wave of coronavirus that will force businesses to close again, as there is no doubt that some businesses will not be able to reopen a second time," she said.
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