Hon Shane Jones
Local Government spokesperson

15 April 2009 Media Statement


Proposed talkfest a sham consultation

The proposed working group between Rodney Hide and Auckland’s mayors is a sham consultation exercise as the Government’s intentions are set in stone, says Labour’s Local Government spokesman Shane Jones.

Mr Jones was commenting on the working group agreed to be set up today on the future of Auckland’s governance, following the Local Government Minister’s meeting with the mayors.

“Rodney Hide knows he failed to consult properly and he is now trying to be seen to be making amends. But I predict there won’t be many meaningful meetings,” said Shane Jones.

“Rodney Hide has already made it clear he plans to ram through legislation on Auckland governance under urgency as soon as Parliament resumes in just over a week – so what’s the group going to discuss?

“This is nothing but a sham consultation exercise. It’s tragic that the model under construction seems to be more about ivory tower expansionism than people.

“All cities need a heart and soul and this proposal has neither. What we are seeing is corporate ideology eclipsing community participation,” said Shane Jones.

“Unless people are initially involved in choosing their representatives, and know them, there is no chance that the future of Auckland will be community-based.”

ENDS

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