6 May 2008
Iti Bail Decision Outrageous Says Mark
New Zealand First has criticised the “insane” High Court decision that allows Tama Iti relaxed bail conditions so that
he can star in a stage production touring Europe and Britain.
Law and order spokesperson Ron Mark said that most New Zealanders would find it incomprehensible that an individual
facing serious firearms charges would be allowed to leave the country to prance about on stages and portray a false
image of New Zealand.
“According to news reports Tama Iti will be the main dancer in an adapted Shakespearean production that allows him a
platform to spread his message – whatever that is – around the world.
“It seems that if you tattoo your face, pick up a gun, spit in the face of authority and defy the laws of the land, you
will get special treatment and government funds to continue your anti-social behaviour.
“This case indicates that it matters who you are in our court system, and if you are a brown activist you will get
special treatment.
“It undermines the foundation on which our legal system was built, which is that everyone is equal under the law.
”The latest Iti decision has shown that some are more equal than others,” said Mr Mark.
ENDS