For Immediate Release:

Poll shows Government out of touch with voters

A recent Poll conducted by Yahoo New Zealand is a clear indication that the Government is not listening to voters according to the Sensible Sentencing Trust.

Yahoo New Zealand conducted the Poll after Justice Minister Simon Power said that National would not consider implementing a Three-Strike Youth Justice System the Sensible Sentencing Trust says is essential to reduce youth offending.

The Poll was conducted over a 24 hour period on June 2nd and had 15,103 votes.

The Poll question:

Should New Zealand introduce a Three-Strike Youth Justice System?

Yes: 87% 13080 votes
No: 11% 1695 votes
Don’t know: 2% 328 votes

Trust Spokesman Garth McVicar said the sheer numbers of voters was an indication at the level of concern the public had regarding youth offending.

“We have never conducted a Poll like this before and to be honest I was quiet amazed at the response but absolutely flabbergasted at the support for our Three-Strike Youth policy.”

“This is clear indication that New Zealanders are concerned at escalating youth crime and the inability of the current system to address the problem.”

“Many communities are plagued by graffiti, vandalism, theft and bullying. We believe the current youth justice system is incapable of stopping the hard core youth offender.”
“Pushing the boundaries is typical youth exuberance – it is character building – part of growing up – BUT breaking the law is entirely different to pushing the boundaries and should not be tolerated.”
Sensible Sentencing three –strike youth offending proposal:
1) Strike1: Full reimbursement of damages and costs. Parents to be responsible along with Youth Offender. Compulsory enrolment in sport or recreational activity.

2) Strike 2: As in 1st strike plus compulsory referral to Youth Court for additional punishment. Supervised work such as rubbish and graffiti clean up.

3) Strike 3: As in 1 & 2 plus mandatory sentence to ABCD Camps[Military Activity Camps]

“National got elected with a very clear mandate to get tough on crime but like most governments it appears they have forgotten their voters and are prepared to break their promise.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media