PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

16 April 07

Former All Black to Officiate Mass Gathering against Anti-smacking Bill

Parliament Grounds, Wellington
Wednesday 2nd May 12.30pm

www.familyvalues.net.nz

Iconic former All Black and Wellington Hurricanes Captain, Mark 'Bull' Allen, will officiate the mass gathering at Parliament Grounds planned for Wednesday 2nd May at 12.30pm. The gathering is being organised to maintain public opposition to the passage of the anti smacking bill currently before parliament.

The event likely coincides with the final reading of the bill and will facilitate a groundswell of support for an opportunity at parliament to speak collectively against the bill.

"As a husband and father of five I have become increasingly concerned at the level of government interference in the lives of everyday New Zealand families. The message this bill sends to parents is that we can't be trusted to raise our own children. I'm as concerned as anybody about the rates of abuse in our country but legislation that undermines and weakens New Zealand families is not the answer," says Allen.

Confirmed speakers at the event include Bishop Brian Tamaki of Destiny Church, Pastor Peter Mortlock of City Impact Church and Reverend Mike Weitenberg of Metro Global Church Community.

Details of the event can be viewed on www.familyvalues.net.nz

"Let's face it, raising kids isn't easy by any stretch of the imagination. But any loving parent knows the difference between what is reasonable and what is unreasonable when it comes to setting boundaries for our children," Allen added.

Event Details:

Date: Wednesday 2nd May 2007
Time: 12.30pm
Place: Parliament Grounds, Wellington

ENDS

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