Council takes political censor role again

23rd February 2007

Council takes political censor role again

Green Party Wellington City spokesperson Iona Pannett said the Greens were appalled to hear today that the Wellington City Council have withdrawn permission for Falun Gong to participate in the Cuba Carnival and Chinese New Year celebrations.

Ms. Pannett said "this issue once again raises serious questions about the Council's commitment to freedom of speech in the city. This decision infringes on Falun Gong's right to free speech guaranteed by the Bill of Rights and to any other group or individual who wants to speak on issues that the Council does not agree with."

Ms. Pannett said that rights of freedom of speech were guaranteed after the passing of the controversial Public Places Bylaw in 2004. "It is therefore particularly disappointing to hear that once again, a legitimate group has been refused permission to participate in a community event."

Ms. Pannett pointed out that such a decision affects political groups like the Green Party as well, who were also refused permission to participate in the Cuba Carnival.

The Greens are calling on the Council to stand up for free speech and to focus on the big issues like climate change rather than indulging in petty bureaucratic meddling. She said "Wellington has a reputation for celebrating diversity and for its toleration of varying views. This decision endangers this reputation."

Ms. Pannett called on the Council to reassure the Wellington public that it was not bowing to pressure from the Chinese embassy to ban Falun Gong from participating in community events.

ENDS