Media Releases
Mayor's reaction to Wilson case outcome - 27/08/2012

Mayor Annette Main has responded to the result announced by the High Court that the Council’s case has been dismissed with disappointment.

The decision means that Stewart Murray Wilson can be released to a dwelling on the grounds of Whanganui Prison, Kaitoke, with a set of conditions attached to his release.

“Wanganui District Council has taken the only steps open to us to challenge the release of Wilson into the Wanganui district and I am frustrated and disappointed with the outcome.

“We have legitimately put the concerns of our community at the heart of our decision to pursue legal action and whilst that has not produced our desired outcome, we will continue to listen and support the Wanganui community in an overriding and powerful desire for a safe community.

“I have said this many times and I reiterate - Stewart Murray Wilson will never be welcome in our community or any other community in New Zealand.

“The Wanganui community has been put into an impossible situation and one in which our reputation has been damaged. I am concerned about the adverse effect this decision may have on people’s views of our district. We have been working hard to attract visitors and businesses to Wanganui and the relocation of Wilson has undermined much of that good work.

“We will unite in our response to hold the Police and Corrections Department accountable for their management of this man. They are charged with the task of ensuring this man does not offend again and protecting our community from this man. This is a significant responsibility and one which they cannot hide from.

“With regard to the future release of such people into all of our communities the people of Wanganui have spoken clearly on behalf of all New Zealanders. It is time for the government to address those concerns and enact legislation which ensures no other community is faced with the situation we in Wanganui have been.

“Wanganui is, and will continue to be, a safe and family-friendly place to live, work and visit. We will not let the decisions made by the Corrections Department and Parole Board define us and our future.”

Council is holding an extraordinary meeting tomorrow at 4.00pm in the Council Chamber, 101 Guyton Street, Wanganui, to discuss the outcome of the hearing and further options available relating to Stewart Murray Wilson.

ENDS

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