ACT Deputy Leader John Boscawen will this month host a series of public meetings in the Auckland area to outline the history of the foreshore and seabed debate, and to discuss the implications – and impending consequences – of the Government’s proposed Marine and Coastal Area (Takutai Moana) Bill.
“The Maori Affairs Select Committee’s hearings on this Bill have ended. During this process Maori and non-Maori alike made it abundantly clear that there is no mandate for this Bill,” Mr Boscawen said.
“Despite this, however, the National and Maori Parties remains determined to forge ahead with this flawed and deeply divisive legislation.
“ACT is the only Party to have maintained a consistent view on the foreshore and seabed issue: the 2004 Act should be repealed, and Maori returned the right to have their claims heard in open court.
“The foreshore and seabed is a huge issue for all New Zealanders and the Government cannot be allowed to put short-term political gain ahead of finding a long-term and just resolution,” Mr Boscawen said.
Foreshore & Seabed Public Meetings
- 7.30pm, Feb 7: Channell View Lounge, Mary Thomas Centre, Gibbons Rd, Takapuna
- 7.30pm, Feb 10: Harbour View Lounge, Ponsonby Cruising Club, Westhaven Dr, Westhaven
- 7.30pm, Feb 14: Orakei RSA, Kepa Rd, Orakei
- 7.30pm, Feb 17: Hawkins Centre Foyer, Ray Small Dr, Papakura
- 7.30pm, Feb 21: Bucklands Beach Yacht Club, Ara Tai, Half Moon Bay, Auckland
- 7.30pm, Feb 24: St John the Baptist Church, Church St, Northcote, North Shore
Tags: Foreshore and Seabed