Faafoi slams booze law

The National Government missed a once-in-a-generation chance to give communities more say on controlling alcohol by not strengthening the Alcohol Law Reform Bill, said Mana MP Kris Faafoi.

Communities in Porirua had fought for years for more say and more controls but National decided against taking harder measures, he said.

‘‘ The hundreds of people that protested in Porirua against alcohol abuse recently will be disappointed that the Government blocked muchneeded changes to the law.

‘‘ The recent campaigns around the likes of Russell School have championed the need for community voice. But not one National MP took action to help them.’’

Mr Faafoi said he supported an amendment to ban offlicences within one kilometre of schools and early childhood centres.

‘‘ This would have meant less rubbish for our schools, kids and families to have to clean up on Monday mornings.

‘‘It would also mean that our kids wouldn’t be bombarded with alcohol advertising as they make their way to and from school.

‘‘The amendment exempted supermarkets and gave the ability for new and existing off-licensees looking to trade within the 1km radius to apply for an exemption.

‘‘ That would have meant communities like Pukerua Bay, Plimmerton and Pauatahanui for example could retain an off-licence in their area if their community supported it.’’

He said for too long it had been too difficult for communities to have their say.

‘‘ The 1km radius change would have given communities more say to prevent the carnage happening in some areas of Porirua.’’