It looks like Mike Baird’s time has come.
The New South Wales Premier has just announced his resignation from the role and his retirement from politics, effective next week.
I’m retiring from politics. It’s been an honour to serve you, NSW. pic.twitter.com/eFInOqoC19
— Mike Baird (@mikebairdMP) January 18, 2017
Baird has served in the NSW Government for the last six years. His Premiership has become perhaps most notorious for him becoming the face of the Sydney lockout laws, which were introduced in 2014.
Baird inherited the laws from his predecessor Barry O’Farrell, but attracted criticism for his continual defence of the laws and perceived unwillingness to negotiate them.
Last year, a March Against Bairdtook place on the streets of Sydney to protest ‘Casino Mike’ and his impact on the city’s cultural and political scene.
So what does the news mean for the future of the lockout laws? Time will tell, but we’re in for a ride…
Photo: Brianna Elton