Media Statement: City Mall Youth Arrests Sad Day for Christchurch

Yani Johanson, City Council candidate for Hagley/Ferrymead and former Christchurch Youth Councillor:

"The action taken by the youth today is symbolic of young people feeling that the Christchurch City Council is not listening to them or their concerns. It is a sad day and deeply concerning for our city when young people are arrested for having to protest because they feel they are not included in the plans for the central city revitalisation, including City Mall."

"As part of their performance review, the Council who were told last week that only 34% of people were satisified with the way in which it involves the public in decision making. The protests and arrests this afternoon further highlight that local democracy is becoming non-existent in our city. The City Mall consultation and decision making process has been a shambles and people are utterly confused and upset about what is or is not happening. Bringing back standing committees and abolishing secret portfolio groups would allow for better engagement and working together. I also will continue to lobby for the Council to re-establish an internal youth council so that there is an increased youth voice in local government."

"I call on Council to halt the demolition of the City Mall and to do a special consultative procedure on the detailed designs and traffic issues before any further work is commenced. This is the only way in which the public will have confidence in the final decision on the fate of City Mall."

ENDS

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