01 May 2002

Green Party Mental Health spokesperson Sue Bradford is today strongly critical of Bill English's boxing match to raise money for youth suicide.

"It just makes me cry to think that getting in the boxing ring is the best he can think of to do for youths at risk of suicide," she said.

"It's good he cares, but what good is getting his head bashed in going to do for mentally ill young people?"

Ms Bradford said boxing is one of the most violent and degrading sports around, and perpetuates the culture of aggression and bullying that is often the last straw for vulnerable young people.

"Suicide is one of the most tragic events that can happen to any family," she said.

"But the sad thing is that both Bill English and I are politicians. The whole point of being in politics is that we are among the few people who can actually do something about improving things - including the way that mental health services are delivered.

"If Bill English wants a sparring match then I'll take him on. But it will be in the arena that politicians should stick to - with words and policies."

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