24 August 2009

No Maori seats on Auckland Council

[Statement from David Thornton]

The decision not to require Maori seats on the new Auckland Council is an equitable one from a ratepayers perspective.

Central government provides less than 13% of council funding while councils must find funds locally for 87% of their income.

Most of that comes from rates which amount to more than 60% of council income.

It should also be remembered that some Maori land is exempt from rates.

There is provision in existing legislation for local councils to propose Maori seats on their councils – but only with the approval of local residents.

It must be a case of ‘Let he who pays the piper call the tune’.

ENDS

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