Clayton Cosgrove
Law and Order Spokesperson
MP for Waimakariri

18 October 2009 Media Statement

Government-gang partnership crazy

Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples’ funding of secret meetings with gang leaders flies in the face of the Government’s so-called hard line on methamphetamine, says Labour law and order spokesperson Clayton Cosgrove.

“I am absolutely astounded that Pita Sharples thinks it is okay to assemble 16 gang leaders, many or all of whom have no doubt been involved in some way in the P trade, and to ferry them around Auckland at taxpayer expense,” Clayton Cosgrove said.

“Pita Sharples clearly thinks gang leaders should be treated as partners. He should try telling that to the people of Murupara and see what sort of reaction he gets.”

“The people of Murupara want their town back from the gangs. They are closer to the ground on this issue than Pita Sharples ever will be.”

Clayton Cosgrove said the meeting called by Dr Sharples in March is in complete contrast to the so-called hardline P initiatives announced by Prime Minister John Key just nine days ago.

“Earlier this year Police Minister Judith Collins said she had no intention of meeting with gangs, but her colleague Dr Sharples undermines the Government’s credibility by doing just that.

“Meeting with gangs --- whose stock line of business over the year has included murder and rape as well as peddling drugs ---- sends them a message that they are equals.

“There is no way Kiwis will go along with that message. Some ministers in this government clearly don’t understand that.”

ENDS

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