8 April 2005 Media Statement

V8 public meeting at Paramount Theatre

The public meeting, called by Wellington Central MP Marian Hobbs to discuss the proposed V8 car race, will be held in the Paramount Theatre, Courtenay Place, on Tuesday April 19 at 7pm.

Marian Hobbs intends making a written submission to the Wellington City Council.

"I am opposed to the race," she added. "As a Wellington resident my sense of unease about the event has grown as more information comes to light. I could have accepted the race if it heralded great benefits for Wellington but it is looking an increasingly shaky proposition.

"As MP I have received many representations about the race. For example, the economic benefits appear to have been oversold and the proposal spreads the extra rate burden unfairly. Businesses, which would be adversely affected by the race will have to pay the same additional rates as those which benefit.

"We need to consider: is the race the best way to spend our money?

"As local MP I have a role to help residents access information and have their say. That is why I booked the Paramount Theatre for the meeting. People want to ensure their views are heard. I am grateful The Dominion Post is backing the meeting with Editor Tim Pankhurst as chair.

"I hope Mayor Kerry Prendergast and Wellington City Councillors will come and listen.

"They will be making the decision on the race so I do not expect them to take part in the public meeting but Wellington citizens want a well-reported town hall debate before the council decision on 5 May.

"I invite councillors to attend the meeting so they can hear the information for themselves and take on board people's views."

ENDS

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