Sydney, Australia, Jul 2, 2008 / 03:53 am
Laws introduced in the Australian state of New South Wales to prevent people from “causing annoyance” or inconvenience to participants in World Youth Day now face stiff criticism for their requirements that organizations have placards, banners and T-shirts pre-approved by authorities.
Protesting without police clearance could result in demonstrators being charged under new regulations which came into effect on Tuesday, the Sydney Morning Herald reveals.
Some protesters have said they will defy the regulations and risk a $5,500 fine.
One online retailer is selling T-shirts that say “$5500 - a small price to pay for annoying Catholics.”