Sue
MORONEY
Women’s Affairs Spokesperson

4 October 2012 MEDIA STATEMENT
Tyson not a role model for New Zealanders

The Government needs to take a firm position on its decision to revoke Mike Tyson's visa, says Labour's Women's Affairs Spokesperson, Sue Moroney.

“With sexual assaults up 15 per cent over the last two years, the last thing New Zealand needs is a convicted rapist being paraded around like some celebrity role model to promote a $395 a seat event.

“The Government’s on-again, off-again response is prevarication at its worst. It shows just how out of touch it is with public sentiment around violence against women.

“Immigration Minister Kate Wilkinson was adamant yesterday that Tyson would be barred. Less than 24 hours later she says she is open to approving a visa if it was supported by a charity.

“We all know that charitable organisations are having a hard time of it at the moment, but a funding squeeze should not be used as an excuse to give a high profile convicted rapist special treatment.

“Ms Wilkinson didn't do her homework on this the first time around. I would urge her to do it properly this time, and that includes acquainting herself with Mr Tyson’s other violent offending.

“This man is making headlines around the world right now, not because he is a role model, but because he is a convicted rapist. We don’t need him here,” said Sue Moroney.

© Scoop Media

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