Hamilton City Council chief executive Richard Briggs says views expressed by Councillor James Casson on social media over the weekend are in no way shared or endorsed by the Council.

“Cr Casson published a post regarding the Christchurch terror attack and the country’s reaction which has hurt and upset many in our community,” Mr Briggs says.

“Widespread media coverage of his comments has included reference to a separate social media post on his account from 2016 – prior to him becoming a Councillor.”

Council has received several complaints from the public about the posts, Briggs says.

“During Cr Casson’s elected term he is subject to our Code of Conduct, as are all elected members. We have assessed Cr Casson’s comments against the Code of Conduct and sought independent advice. While his recent comments are not reflective of the views of many in our community or the Council, they do not breach the Code.

“However, I want to make it clear these views are those of Cr Casson and not the view of this Council. We are proud of the way the people of Hamilton have stood by Christchurch and the wider community since the attacks on 15 March.”

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