ELECTION VOTING
Some have proposed compulsory voting. Others voting online.
OK, how about we concede compulsory voting in exchange for culpability if political promises are not met? What about a balanced budget?
The reason voter turnout is so low is because many feel voting makes no difference. Over the last decade I’ve noticed we have been electing leaders because they are the least unpopular, not the most popular. Just look at the UK, Australia and the US.
In NZ, National are in because Key was quite clearly the best of the bunch although protests to his policies have shown, not so popular. This is the problem.
Referenda are ignored, protests are viewed as a hindrance to stop the government’s plans instead of a democratic right. You just need to watch the news to see how unaffordable things have become for middle income earners.
The government’s not working for us. If the government want more people to vote, show that they are working for us! We pay them after all. Listen to us. When we protest take notice. When there is a referendum do what it says. Nigel Latta proposed limiting length of service to elected members. No more career politicians. Fantastic idea.
Alex Reina, Matamata
A big thank you must go to the members of the Matamata Rotary Club for helping set up the Memorial Hall.
We would also like to thank Forget Me Not Florist and other local businesses for allowing art to be displayed in their windows as publicity for the event.
Creative Communities New Zealand is acknowledged for its contribution to our funding.
Lastly, thank you to our many supporters who encourage us by attending this vibrant, thought provoking unique display of art.
Margaret Dwyer, Matamata Society of Arts President