Press Release Stephen Berry Announcement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Stephen Berry Contesting 2007 Auckland Mayoral Election

"This is a declaration of war against the leeches and petty fascists of Auckland City Council," said Stephen Berry today, announcing his candidacy, as an Independent, for the Auckland Mayoralty in the 2007 local body elections. "I am offering the voters of Auckland City a true alternative to the decades of statist interference they have had to endure from their elected representatives."

Twenty-three year old Berry, a nine year resident of Central Auckland, previously stood for the Auckland Mayoralty under the Libertarianz banner in 2004. He currently works as a supermarket assistant and also owns a small business selling benzyl piperazine products.

"My warnings of life under Hubbard have rung true. This 'unashamed futurist' has sentenced Aucklanders to a future of higher rates, higher council spending and a greater erosion of property rights. His unapologetic newspaper advertising proves that if this city re-elects him, they can expect an escalation of his socialist dogma."

A self-described "staunch libertarian," Berry advocates policies which will reduce the size and power of council within the legislative parameters of central government. He supports:

*A commitment to cuts in rates and spending through a massive reduction in council activities. Council will do no more than required by central government.

*The rights of property owners must be paramount over concerns of public interest, environmental and historic preservation.

*Recognising that individuals are the true owners of their own lives. They have the right to live these lives as they see fit on the condition they are responsible for their own actions and do not initiate force or fraud against others.

*The user of services should be the person who pays. As an example, rubbish collection should be provided through a pre-pay rubbish bag system.

*The completion of the motorway network in a manner consistent with property rights and cuts in rates and spending.

"Aucklanders can look forward to a hard fought campaign in which I will be absolutely upfront about my intentions to slash this council down to size. There will be no false posturing nor grand schemes to spend your money for you. I bring only a determination to fight for the rights of individuals and reduce the reach of this council"

Berry will be announcing candidacies for a council ward and community board seat at a later date.

IF YOU'RE MAD - VOTE BERRY

ENDS

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