3 April 2019

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hamilton City Council | Te Kaunihera

Hamilton Mayor Andrew King has today emphasised the need for respect and understanding after a social media post by Councillor James Casson sparked complaints on the weekend.

The post, in relation to the way New Zealand was responding to the Christchurch terror attacks, drew a storm of criticism. Hamilton City Council has noted the post did not reflect the views of the Council.

Yesterday Cr Casson laid a complaint with the Council over a series of public posts and comments made in response by Cr Dave Macpherson.

The two Councillors met this morning with Mayor Andrew King and Cr Casson has now withdrawn the complaint.

Mayor King says the decision shows it is time to move forward and for Councillors to resume working together for the good of the city.

“Councillor Casson has unreservedly apologised for his comments,” Mayor King says.

“I have no doubt Cr Casson has learned a lot in the past few days and has recognised the effect which his words have had on people in grief.

“There are lessons for us all here.

“I have once again emphasised to my Council the importance of respect, understanding and empathy for all of our community. As elected representatives we need to be leaders for our city. These are exciting and important times for Hamilton and that is where we will, and must, focus our attention.”

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