Constitutional Review

Few New Zealanders are aware we have a Constitution.

Even fewer are aware, that our Constitution is under review.

The United States written Constitution enshrines certain basic human rights and is a cornerstone of their justice system. And maybe we assume that we have something similar inthis country that protects us from parliament’s excesses.

We don’t.

If our politicians decided they wanted to vote themselves in for a 20 year term, they could do it.

If the Prime Minister decides to sack the Governor-General –no problem.

If the government wants to legislate against citizens criticising their policy, with the numbers in the house, they could do that too.

All of which makes Constitutional Reform a bit of a hot topic.

A constitutional review panel has been appointed by government .

So what issues should this panel be considering, and what sort of powers will they have?

John Tamihere and guests Lewis Holden , Annette Sykes, Denis O’Rourke , Prue Kaapua discuss what do we as New Zealanders need to do to make sure our views are heard?

Watch THINK TANK TV3 9.30am Sunday July 15.

ENDS

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