News Release from the Republic of New Zealand Party

16 October 2006

Tax-free Charity Legislation.

Revelations that the Government is considering legislation to give the Charities Commission the power to deregister charitable organisations for political intent, should send a shockwave through the New Zealand community, says party spokesman Bevan Berg.

“This is an unacceptable affront to our democratic process.”

This type of legislation has the ability to become a political weapon. This should not only send alarm bells to existing charities, but to all of us that have any sense of community spirit.

“I am personally aware of the implications that this type of legislation can have.”

As a trustee of the Separated Fathers Support Trust, where our primary function was to establish emergency accommodation for separated fathers especially those with children and no where to turn, I had personal experience of this type of police state mentality. We battled the IRD not for months, but years, and eventually had to engage a lawyer and threaten legal action against the IRD. The simple answer is we did not suit the politics of the day, says Mr Berg.

“The Republicans will not support this totalitarian rubbish; we at least have an understanding of democracy.”

Let’s look at what has happened here says Mr Berg.

“The four parties of this coalition were the biggest offenders when it came to having their hands in the taxpayer till. This government is telling the electorate, if you won’t pay for our propaganda, we will limit your ability to participate in government.”

This is not on says Mr Berg, expect to hear more from the Republicans if this is the path the current administration wants to head down.

Ends.

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