MP Calls For Independent Review of Library Restructuring

ACT Cultural Affairs Spokesman Donna Awatere Huata is calling for an independent review to be launched into the proposed restructuring of National Library Services.

"I am disturbed that the national Library proposed revision of the collections policy will narrow to a focus on New Zealand and Pacific materials.

"New Zealand is by nature, a diverse and multi-faceted nation. Without a representation of all influences on our culture, important aspects of our heritage will be lost.

"It is short sighted to develop inward-looking policies when our future depends on trade relationships with other nations.

"I urge caution when judging the historical value of these resources. What is not clear is the basis upon which such decisions are being made.

The ACT MP has also criticised the proposed withdrawal of funding for the Auckland business collections.

"This is appalling. Auckland is the heart of New Zealand's business. This is a time when we should be looking to the future, looking at the continued business growth of the area.

"Furthermore, I am not satisfied that the proposed changes will not affect children in classrooms. Our job is to protect their heritage, not destroy it.

"The National Library is here to safeguard the nation's culture and identity. We need to protect one of our country's most valuable cultural treasures," said Donna Awatere Huata.

ENDS

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Gordon Campbell: On the Sony cyber attack

Given the layers of meta-irony involved, the saga of the Sony cyber attack seemed at the outset more like a snarky European art film than a popcorn entry at the multiplex.

Yet now with (a) President Barack Obama weighing in on the side of artistic freedom and calling for the US to make a ‘proportionate response’quickly followed by (b) North Korea’s entire Internet service going down, and with both these events being followed by (c) Sony deciding to backtrack and release The Interview film that had made it a target for the dastardly North Koreans in the first place, then ay caramba…the whole world will now be watching how this affair pans out. More>>