ACT Local Government spokesperson Cameron Luxton is calling on NZ First Minister Shane Jones to back a simple law change to protect democratic accountability, following his comments on the Far North District Council.

“After an unusual attack on Councillor Davina Smolders, who stood up against co-governance by stealth at the far North District Council, Mr Jones now says he opposes co-governance after all. There’s an unmistakable signal he can send, if he’d like to support elected councillors like Davina, and reinforce his commitment to one person, one vote at every council in this country.

"If that’s true, he should be clear about whether he supports a straightforward change to the law that removes voting rights for unelected committee members,” says Mr Luxton.

“This week, Far North District Council voted 9–1 to confirm unelected hapū representatives on a committee, with full voting rights, and a majority large enough to override elected members. It’s just the latest example of creeping co-governance at the council level.

“My Member’s Bill would amend the Local Government Act so unelected members of council committees and subcommittees cannot vote, and do not count toward quorum. It applies equally to anyone appointed rather than elected, whether they’re iwi representatives, youth councillors, or members of business or community groups.

“ACT has been consistent on opposing co-governance, and upholding equal rights and the principle of one person, one vote. We’ve restored the right for communities to have a say on Māori wards, and we’re continuing to stand up for equal say at the council table.

“If Shane Jones unelected appointees are a problem, the obvious next step is to support a fix.

“All 11 ACT MPs have signed their names to support my bill out of the ballot. I invite Shane Jones and his New Zealand First colleagues to join us.”

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