Press Release
Main Issue Lost In Local Govt Debate
Hon Sir Roger Douglas
Tuesday, 22 April, 2008

Aucklanders are so busy worrying about how many Councils and Councillors they should have that the real issue is being side-lined, ACT New Zealand founder and candidate the Hon Sir Roger Douglas said today.

"Instead of discussing the organisational details, Aucklanders should first be looking at just what the role of Local Government in Auckland is into the future," Sir Roger said.

"At the moment, Local Government in Auckland is beset by incredible cost and waste. Local Government should be confined to its core activities – such as public transport, sewerage, etc.

"Any move by Councils to go beyond those activities should be preceded by a poll to first gain ratepayers' approval. Any proposal should be accompanied by a statement of objectives and goals of what the Council hopes to achieve and the cost thereof.

"That statement would then be audited by someone - independent of the Council - who has the skills to determine whether those goals are reasonable, achievable, and what the actual cost to ratepayers will be.

"Local Government should be efficient and structured in such a way as to add to the overall wealth of citizens," Sir Roger said.

ENDS

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