24th September 2012

MSD Occupiers Appear In Court, Prepare For Further Action

Anti-poverty protesters who mounted an occupation of MSD's office last week appeared in court this morning to respond to charges of willful trespass.

“Our occupation last week was a concerted attempt to directly challenge some of the horrendous welfare reforms that have been introduced to parliament. We strongly believe that these policies amount to punishing people for being poor rather than focusing on the real task of creating decent jobs and opportunities for people, says AAAP spokesperson Chris Zack.

“Though there are repercussions for us with this sort of action, we intend to continue fighting back and will do our best to highlight the destructive nature of National's welfare reform.”

“In order to keep pressure on the government, we will be directing our attention to John Key this Friday. On September 28th, Mr. Key will be attending an event in West Auckland raising money for a new childrens' ward at Waitakere hospital. We believe it is highly ironic that the Prime Minister would raise money for kids when his party's policies are going to cause even more child poverty, ill health and homelessness.”

“To highlight this absurd contradiction, AAAP will be hosting a picket outside the venue and we invite all supporters and their families to attend. The picket will be at Lincoln Green, 159 Lincoln Rd, Henderson at 11:30 sharp.”

“If John Key really cared to make a positive difference in children's lives, he would stop and reverse these welfare reforms which would undoubtedly make life more difficult for New Zealand's 240 000 children living in poverty.”

ENDS

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