Dr Cam Calder
National MP
29 August 2012

Lives At Risk From Hand-Held Laser Misuse

Dr Cam Calder, National List MP based in Manurewa, has said that lives could be lost because of the flagrant misuse of hand-held laser pointers by an irresponsible few in our community.

Speaking from Parliament, Dr Calder said “I’m appalled that once again lives have been put in danger by an idiot misusing a laser pointer. It is extremely concerning that a laser beam was shone into the eyes of an Air New Zealand pilot upon approach to Blenheim airport, earlier this week”.

The increasing number of these incidents is the reason why Dr Calder has drafted a Members Bill designed to make the carriage of handheld laser pointer devices in a public place, without reasonable excuse, a punishable offence.

Dr Calder said “I am also working closely with Associate Minister of Health, Hon Jo Goodhew, on tightening regulations around the importation and sale of high-power laser pointers”.

“Legislation and regulation however, are only part of the solution. It is important that all of us realise the harm that the misuse of these devices can cause”.

Authorised by Dr Cam Calder MP, 4 Station Rd, Manurewa

ENDS

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