7 April 2009 Media Statement
Pacific Island peoples views will get lost in SuperCity

Pacific Island people living in Auckland should have been consulted on impacts of the SupeCity idea, Labour Pacific Island Affairs spokesperson Luamanuvao Winnie Laban says.

“Labour Leader Phil Goff and I attended a Fono in Auckland with Pacific Island people yesterday and it was clear that there were serious concerns about the proposal.

“I am extremely concerned that without consultation Pacific Island peoples voices will not be heard when the new SuperCity is formed.

“Pacific Island peoples could have less access to decision makers under the new make-up and this is of great concern.

“Its clear that the community boards will have limited if any power and instead control of Auckland will be vested in the hands of a few. This cannot be good for our people.

"The Government promised to strengthen local representation, but by failing to consult with communities it’s difficult to see how this will happen.

“I am also concerned that elections will favour those who have a high profile and can afford the most billboards rather than those who have the greatest interest in their community.

“Community representatives need to represent the people in their electorates but the proposal announced today seems more about excluding the public from having a real say in the running of their city.

“As Phil Goff said today the whole set-up will disenfranchise the west and south of Auckland, but places like Remuera will be well served.

“Auckland is a multicultural city and is well known as the Polynesian and Pacific capital of the world yet we are facing the possibility that the power to set its future direction will be given to a few rather than put in hands of those people who know the issues that affect the many, many different communities and cultures, Winnie Laban said.

ENDS

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