11 July 2011

Auckland Council has today responded to a misleading and inaccurate report in the Herald on Sunday, saying it has no intention of removing homeless people from the streets during the Rugby World Cup.

Betty MacLaren, team leader community safety: central said the council is working closely with other agencies to ensure the city is a safe place during Rugby World Cup 2011.

“Additional funding has been allocated because we want the streets of Auckland to be a safe place both for the homeless and our visitors in what will be a busy and exciting time for the city,” said Ms MacLaren.

“Because of the larger number of visitors that will be here, extra funding of $20,000 will be used for the security and support of the homeless.”

City Watch security will assist with increased enforcement of public space bylaws, including liquor ban enforcement, ensuring that tables and chairs are not obstructing footpaths and that rubbish is put out in the business district at the right times.

Anti-social behaviour will also be monitored to ensure safety of all people in the central city. These parts of the programme amount to $15,000 of the allocation.

A further $5,000 will go towards increased staff roster hours for agencies that work with the homeless, to help coordinate more bed-nights and emergency placements, and allow staff from Auckland City Mission and Lifewise to be available at busy times if required.

ENDS

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