PM wants an open door on debate

The Prime Minister wants to emphasize his desire for public debate to inform the team that is coordinating the options for political reform.
Marurai says he has simply “opened a door of opportunity” for public debate on a range (12) of options although the MPs will ultimately decide the fate of these proposed ideas because of the necessity for legislative change. However, that does not prevent the public from exercising their right of opinion through the various avenues available to them.
The current process would have been launched in October 2007 but the previous cabinet refused to engage the initiative. The original plan – backed up by the Democratic Party Manifesto of 2006 – asked the former cabinet to support a progressive approach of consultations on “Political Reform: A Way Forward”.
To assist the renewed public debate, the Prime Minister said he will encourage both Iaveta Short and Tata Crocombe to pursue public consultations around the Vaka of Rarotonga. Radio programmes for broader national reach are also being planned.
Marurai points out that if any interested person, or party, wants to submit their ideas in advance, in writing, they should feel free to do so. The debate process would be able to accommodate written submissions, which would be deposited with the Office of the Prime Minister and directed to Short and Crocombe.

Herald Issue 463 10 June
- World famous activist assisting residents
- Budget will decide if residents prosecute Government over landfill
- Forestry project sucking Mangaia dry
- Budget 2010 – fiasco or disaster?