Gordon Copeland

Wednesday, 11th June 2008

P-labs flourish in managed rental properties

Independent MP and Kiwi Party candidate Gordon Copeland today expressed his deep concern that P-labs are flourishing in New Zealand in the absence of a liscensing regime for property managers.

"I regard the methamphetamine/P epidemic as the single most serious social problem in New Zealand," said Mr Copeland, "but property management liscensing is not included in the Real Estate Agents Bill which has recently been reported back to Parliament."

"I am reliably informed that the Police were not consulted during the Select Committee process of the Bill even though many submissions express concern at the likelihood of increased criminal activity being carried out in rented homes."

"It is clear to me, that the Police have an enormous problem on their hands with P labs and are desperately keen to see a liscensing regime introduced."

"In the present unregulated climate, it is relatively easy for organised crime to set itself up as a bona fide property manager, make sure that the rents are paid on time, and that externally the property looks normal, whilst inside P is manufactured at their whim."

"I'm amazed that the Minister of Police is not thumping the table with her Cabinet colleagues to see this issue addressed as a matter of extreme urgency. The Government managed to bring anti-tagging legislation to the House rapidly with cross-party support and I have no doubt that the same could happen in relation to the liscensing of property managers so that we give the nation a new tool in our war against P."

"The public and the Police are demanding action and it is time for the Government to get this issue into legislation for the good of our society and the protection of our children."

Mr Copeland went on to say that The Kiwi Party would like to criminal penalties identical to those for murder, for P lab operators and dealers.

"The truth is that, albeit indirectly, P manufacturers and dealers are responsible for the death of many people and that demands the strongest possible deterrent."

Mr Copeland also signalled his continuing opposition to the Real Estate Agent's Bill.

ENDS

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