Nelson asked to dig deep for human shields

Green MP Mike Ward is congratulating the growing chorus of Nelson citizens opposed to war in Iraq, and is calling for fellow Nelsonians to help avoid the impending tragedy.

He applauds the decision of a handful of New Zealanders, including Green Party candidate Christiaan Briggs, to serve as 'human shields' against the US war-for-oil military machine, and is appealing for donations to help fund the campaign.

"There is widespread concern throughout the community about the possibility of war in Iraq and the Nelson Greens certainly share that concern," said Mr Ward.

"While we acknowledge the threats posed be Saddam Hussein to his own people, there is still no justification for a war that can only perpetuate the misery of Iraqi people by bombing and the ongoing threats of nuclear contamination, misery and poverty.

"Christiaan Briggs and others from around the world are taking very bold, brave action to show the world's resolve to avoid such a disasterous, ill-conceived war. We can all show our support by making a donation for peace."

Donations will be accepted at the Nelson office of the Green Party, 284 Trafalgar Street, between 10am and 2pm weekdays.

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