Earthquake Memorial: yes, but not yet

The proposed earthquake memorial holiday comes too soon say the New Zealand Manufacturers and Exporters Association (NZMEA). Many of the quake victims have not yet been identified, businesses are still trying to restore their production, and schools and other services are not yet fully up and running. It is too early for this sort of discretionary disruption.

NZMEA Chief Executive, John Walley says, “It is hard to understand what the Government are trying to achieve with this holiday. If it is to be a day of mourning we are better to wait until names of the deceased are known, some semblance of order has been restored in business and in home life, and until the aftershocks settle down.”

“I have had a number of firms contact me making the point that they have already lost contracts due to the disruption and a holiday will worsen this problem through losing productive time or costing more at a time when resources are stretched. The last thing the Christchurch economy needs is further disruption; something well recognised by staff and employers alike.”

“We have not yet restored basic services to some of the city and a large part of the city centre is still closed. Another day off sends what sort of signal to offshore customers, national competitors and the local community? The decision for a provincial holiday seems less than rational when some are still waiting on electricity, water and sewerage to be restored.”

“A holiday that encourages a large gathering runs against the Civil Defence advice to minimise travel – again where is the logic?”

“Taking time the to remember the victims of this tragic event is very important, but not now; do it later to support those struggling to rebuild the economy of the city.”

“Let the dust settle and do it right, but do it later.”

ends

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