MEDIA RELEASE
Implementation now crucial task for Government
For immediate release on 7 April 2009

“We appreciate that the Government has addressed our concerns about maintaining a local voice in its decisions on Auckland. The next step is further clarification about the how local boards will work within their communities and their decision-making powers,”

Lawrence Yule, President of Local Government New Zealand was speaking today after the Prime Minister announced the Government’s decisions on the Royal Commission report.

“This local government reform will be the most significant in twenty years. It is an opportunity for greater investment and engagement by Government agencies in making Auckland a better city” he said.

“This overall approach seems achievable within the very tight timeframes. Now that a way forward has been identified, implementation can begin. This will remove the uncertainty for elected members and councils.”

Mr Yule added: “The implementation is not without risks, given the high expectations every New Zealander has of the outcomes. The Government must ensure that it retains key staff and elected members experienced in achieving the well-being outcomes prescribed for local government.”

Mr Yule said the implementation work will involve educating Aucklanders about how the new governance structure will impact on their neighbourhoods. “Many will witness major changes to the ways in which they engage with their council. While we appreciate the Government’s desire to push forward with enduring and workable change, we must also acknowledge the depth of local feeling on this issue in both Rodney and Franklin.”

Mr Yule also said the Government’s plans must be considered in response to a unique set of governance issues in our largest metropolitan area.

“The Government must work through the implications of this proposal for Auckland before we consider if it could, or should, be applied to other parts of New Zealand. In the meanwhile there are existing processes for any communities, if they wish to discuss their own local governance structures. We will assist the Government, in any way we can, during the transition and implementation processes,” said Mr Yule.

ENDS

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