MEDIA RELEASE

TUESDAY 24 JANUARY 2017

A proposed begging bylaw for Porirua is not the direction the city should be taking, says Porirua Chamber of Commerce Chief Executive, Tracy Johnson.

"The biggest dis-service to business in Porirua City is perpetuating an outdated, stigmatization of our city's reputation. Mayor Tana telling the world that we need a bylaw to deal with a handful of people begging reinforces incorrect and negative perceptions."

Ms Johnson says that begging is a complex social issue that exists nationally. The local solution in Porirua lies in a "round table" discussion with social services who are funded to work with issues like this.

"The council needs to be focussed on its core responsibilities of infrastructure and business environment, not feeding social media frenzies with unenforceable outdated means like bylaws."

Tracy Johnson said her membership would be concerned at the council putting significant time and money into a bylaw development and consultation. She understands such work could cost the city $150,000 in legal fees and staff time and have no guarantee of success because it would be open to challenge under Human Rights legislation.

"Businesses don't want the council to stray from its core mandate. It's very important that Porirua City Council direct its resources into activities that build business and increase the number of customers that come through their doors. Publicity and attention around a bylaw for begging has the absolute opposite impact."

Tracy Johnson says that she would be keen for the Chamber of Commerce to be invited to be involved in discussions to examine ways to reduce begging.

ENDS

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