MEDIA RELEASE
14 December 2000

Human Rights Commission Supports End To Anti-Theft Scheme

The Insurance Council is disappointed that the Human Rights Commission has advised Police that it supports the Police decision to discontinue the Under-25 Sticker scheme. The scheme was an anti-theft tool aimed at reducing vehicle theft in Canterbury.

The Commission found that the scheme discriminates on the basis of age. The Council is disappointed the Human Rights Commission has seen the Under-25 Sticker scheme to be inappropriate, but accepts the decision.

The Insurance Council supported the Police initiative and believed it would achieve a far greater degree of security for owners of motor vehicles. The Under-25 sticker scheme was seen as a way for middle New Zealand to take its own initiative in reducing crime.

The ICNZ applauds the position taken by Clayton Cosgrove, the Government Member of Parliament for Waimakariri, to support the scheme.

The Council believes the Commission needs to consider this issue in any future decisions it may make.

During 1999, Insurance Council members paid over $460 million in motor insurance claims, much of which resulted from vehicle theft.

ICNZ Chief Executive Chris Ryan said the rights of ordinary law-abiding New Zealanders are breached every day because of car theft.

ENDS

For further information, please contact:
Christopher Ryan, Chief Executive
Tel (04) 472 5230; Mobile, (025) 441 767

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