Peace Flotilla to challenge protest ban
28 October 2016

The Peace Flotilla opposing the entry of warships into Auckland will go ahead despite the government's attempt to ban protests.

"The Peace Flotilla is an on-water response in opposition to this huge war celebration. We are concerned about this glorification of war," said Auckland Peace Action spokesperson Virginia Lambert.

Minister of Transport Simon Bridges has today declared a Major Maritime Event in the Waitematā Harbour that seeks to ban boats and even swimming in parts of the Harbour.

"John Key's government does not want to be embarrassed when the US warship arrives. They are clamping down on peaceful protest and dissent. We will not be intimidated," said Ms Lambert.

The government's declaration allows it to deploy the NZ military against the flotilla.

The founder of the Peace Squadron, the Reverend Dr. George Armstrong said, "These draconian provisions could see the present government make the same serious mistake as Prime Minister Muldoon who sent the country's armed forces against its own peace-seeking citizens."

This is a major crackdown on protests. It even bans swimming in parts of the Harbour while these warships are around.

ENDS

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