Media statement Tuesday, September 25, 2007

Squabbling among civic 'leaders' small minded

Bring on the Royal Commission of Inquiry into how Auckland's councils are elected and structured says Bruce Goldsworthy, the Employers & Manufacturers Association's acting chief executive after hearing the latest squabbling between our civic leaders on radio this morning.

Auckland mayor Dick Hubbard and Mike Lee, chair of the Auckland Regional Council, went head to head, squabbling over how much each council would, or would not contribute to the Eden Park upgrade for the 2011 Rugby World Cup.

"Would Auckland's real leaders please come forward," Mr Goldsworthy said.

"After this morning's exchange, no one can be proud of the present lot.

"Eden Park is a national asset located in Auckland so the upgrade will benefit the Auckland economy more than elsewhere. But another mayoral hopeful has said Auckland City should contribute no money to it.

"It seems reasonable that our councils should each contribute substantially to the upgrade.

"But this morning's squabble emphasized again the lack of leadership in the city and the urgent need for the Royal Commission of Inquiry."

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