MEDIA RELEASE

12 April 2000

Rosemarie Thomas
Spokesperson forLocal Government

RODNEY DISTRICT COUNCIL DECISION APPLAUDED

Christian Heritage Local Government spokesperson Rosemarie Thomas has applauded the Government’s decision to appoint a commissioner for the Rodney District Council.

“The situation in Rodney had become untenable and to continue with only half the elected members could also be seen to be undemocratic especially in light of the deep divisions that had been evident.”

Rosemarie Thomas said the Christian Heritage Party believed the appointment of Grant Kirby also showed that the Government would not tolerate situations like this happening again.

Government intervention in the affairs of local authorities should only be in exceptional circumstances – which this certainly was.

“The Ratepayers in Rodney District should now be able to sleep easier – Christian Heritage wish Grant Kirby all the best in his efforts to not only sort things out, but also to see trust restored in local democracy,” Rosemarie Thomas said.

Rosemarie Thomas is also an elected member of the Wellington Regional Council.
She can be contacted on (025) 846 627

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