News that the Government is to forge ahead with public hearings on proposed changes to the telecommunications industry within days of receiving initial submissions on the issue shows a stunning lack of respect for New Zealand’s democratic process, says TelstraClear CEO Allan Freeth.

“The Government appears hell bent on ramming this crucially important piece of legislation through Parliament with a speed and force that makes a mockery of our so-called democracy.

“At a time when infrastructure providers are committed to supporting the people of Christchurch and the New Zealand economy, this kind of behaviour is both unacceptable and discourteous."

Dr Freeth was speaking after a weekend spent urging the Government to reconsider both the timing of its oral hearings and the 10 minutes allotted to those wishing to speak.

"We take our industry, this Bill and the Parliamentary process seriously. Clearly, this Government doesn't. It's taken this industry 20 years to catch up with the rest of the world. With just 10 minutes before the Select Committee, 20 years of progress could be destroyed."

Last month Dr Freeth slammed the Government’s decision to give interested parties just seven days to comment on the Telecommunications (TSO, Broadband and Other Matters) Bill which outlines seismic changes to the telecommunications industry. He accused the Government of running a Mad Hatters Tea Party.

The Government quickly backed down on the decision and allowed an extra 10 working days for submissions.

“At that time we were half joking. Nobody is laughing now. It’s blatantly obvious to all that the Government has no interest whatsoever in the concerns or opinions of consumers, investors or any other interested parties.

“In its present form this Bill has far reaching impacts which, if not addressed, threaten to set investment in the telecommunications industry back 20 years and rob New Zealanders of choice and fair play.

“It must be considered carefully and with respect. Without that, this bill and the processes that surround it are nothing more than farcical."

ENDS

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