Real compensation – not just market values

The Kiwi Party
Press Release
May 14, 2009

Kiwi Party Mt Albert candidate Simonne Dyer today called on the Government and Land Transport NZ to ensure justice will prevail over the Waterview motorway extension. Mrs Dyer said it is understandable that those potentially loosing their homes will be shocked and resistant to the proposals, and they have my sympathy. But in the long run it is essential for the country as a whole that Auckland’s traffic problems are resolved and the completion of the western motorway must proceed.

“What I am concerned about is that those being asked to make a sacrifice for the good of the whole community are adequately compensated. Giving them a fair market value for their homes is simply not enough. There must be adequate payments to compensate for the stress, the cost of shifting, the loss of connections to land that may have been in their families for quite a few years. If we are serious as a nation about Kiwis getting a fair go then every single homeowner that is loosing their property should be rewarded for the sacrifice made.

"I am concerned that some of the political parties are trying to use this issue to reopen the whole debate about roads vs public transport with trains and buses. In my opinion Auckland’s problems cannot be solved by one solution on its own, we need massive infrastructural development to get Auckland moving again.

"What is important in this My Albert by-election is that the whole campaign does not become narrowly focused on one issue. There are many problems facing this electorate and the country as a whole such as the loss of values that made our country a great place. The restoration of these values in public policy will have a positive impact on education, health and law and order and I for one want to be out on the hustings talking about these timeless values," said Mrs Dyer.

ENDS

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