Tremendous Support From MPs As Manukau’s Two Local Bills Pass First Hurdle In Parliament

Manukau’s two local bills to control graffiti and street prostitution passed the first reading in Parliament yesterday.

The Manukau City Council (Control of Graffiti) Bill was supported by 106 and opposed by 11; the Manukau City Council (Control of Prostitution) Bill was supported by 109 and opposed by 11. The bills were presented by the local Member of Parliament for Manurewa the Hon George Hawkins, on behalf of the Manukau City Council. They will now be scrutinised by the Local Government and Environment Select Committee at which stage Manukau residents, interest groups and people from throughout New Zealand will be able to make submissions.

During the reading Manukau City Council was praised for its vision, courage and proactivity in presenting the bills and hailed as a role model for other local bodies.

Mayor Sir Barry Curtis is delighted at the successful passage of both bills. He says, “I wish to thank our local MPs, in particular the Hon George Hawkins for successfully presenting both bills and for his tireless advocacy of them.; local MP Judith Collins and others who spoke so eloquently supporting the Bills; and MPs throughout New Zealand who voted the bills through to select committee stage.

“Myself, Councillors, Council officials, the Counties Manukau Police and community groups have worked tirelessly to get the local bills to this stage, with the valuable support from local MPs. It is a huge challenge to get a local bill introduced, but we are very optimistic.

“If we are to rid our city of hideous graffiti and the demeaning practice of street prostitution, we must ensure these bills become law. Manukau residents can help by continuing to lobby their local MPs, as I know people have been; write letters to the Prime Minister, make your feelings heard. We cannot relax our campaign at this stage.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to bring about change and clean up the environment, to improve the quality of life for our residents.”

Copies of the two local bills can be accessed on Manukau City Council website www.manukau.govt.nz

ENDS

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