Elaine West
Auckland City Mayoral Candidate

A Super City Plus the Boot for Auckland's MPs and a Commission of Inquiry

If a Super City council comes into being, then the public should demand the resignation of most of Auckland's MPs and insist that a Commission of Inquiry look into the matter.

The Super City idea stems from the Mayors of Auckland wanting to fast track an agenda leading to the commercialisation and privatisation of - core public infrastructure - water, roads, energy, parks, museums, galleries, etc. as well as public services - health, education, housing, the justice system and so on. In writing a submission against tolls on Auckland's existing roads in April 2006, I made several requests that were supported by the people of Auckland.

One such request - that the Government ignore the secret demands of the Auckland Mayoral Forum - was published within the results of the Auckland Road Pricing Evaluation Study.

It seems that the Mayors took fright when learning that the public were onto them, rebounded with lightning speed and concocted the idea for a 'Greater Auckland Council.'

Then the same Mayors lobbied the Government for a rapid law change to safeguard their plans.

Meanwhile, the people of Auckland - who have a legitimate expectation to be informed and consulted when it comes to local government reform - were systematically and effectively shut-out.

If central Government agrees to a Super City council, then the public-

* could make a case for a commission of inquiry and
* argue forcefully that a mass of Auckland's MPs be given the political boot.

After all, who needs a baggage of redundant MPs when, under a Super City council, the Mayors and a few selected appointees can run the political show - all by themselves?

In saying that however, the Government could still save the day for the people of Auckland.

By taking a step back, central Government would see that a clear, democratic and practical way forward is possible without fuss - and that they need only to ask for direction.

ENDS

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