Australian state premier defends keeping Opera House lights off for King Charles’ coronation

ANKARA 

The prime minister of Australia’s New South Wales has defended the decision to not light up the sails of the Sydney Opera House for King Charles’ coronation on Saturday, arguing that it would have caused a “significant” financial burden on taxpayers.

“I’d like to keep it for Australia and Australians, and for moments of sacrifice and heroism for the country – or when there’s an important international event in Sydney,” Chris Minns told local radio station 2GB.

“Of course, I respect the new king but I’m mindful of where and when we spend taxpayers’ money,” he added.

The famous sails of the Opera House are often lit for major events in Australia, including for a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after she died.

Lighting the Opera House costs between $80,000 and $100,000 every night. The previous coalition government had approved lighting the building for the event, however, the recently elected Labor government in the state reversed its predecessor’s decision.

“In 2012, the Opera House was lit up 23 days over [a year],” he said, adding: “It’s up to over 70 days now.”

The Australian Monarchist League condemned the decision not to light the sails for the king.

“Had the premier contacted the Australian Monarchist League, our members would readily have contributed towards the funding for this purpose on this important occasion,” the league said in a statement.

“From now on, should taxpayer funds ever be used to light up buildings, it will prove that this decision was based on Mr Minn’s republican sympathies and not on cost,” it said.

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