Public Policy Expert Attacks ‘SuperCity’

Stuff reports – 

The director of the Institute of Public Policy at AUT University, David Wilson, says the Government has got its Auckland supercity plan wrong but is not listening to calls to back down. He launched a broadside against the Government’s plans today. The Government had “taken one of the headlines of the Royal Commission’s report but removed many of the mechanisms that would have achieved better regional governance.” He said the Government should go back to the original Royal Commission report instead of its own Making Auckland Greater proposals.

 Wilson is an extremely well respected expert on public policy and has an extensive background in economic development and business. He is a member of the EDANZ (Economic Developed Association New Zealand) professional development committee and secretary of the Auckland Regional Economic Development Association. When he says something is wrong that means it is a well thought out position from a recognised professional.

The Government plan was so flawed it was doubtful it would work, said Mr Wilson. He said it left too much to chance and was “but a shadow of the Royal Commission’s report.” “There is a real disquiet that a genuine opportunity has been lost by the Government’s handling of this.” Nor was he confident the Government would listen and change its approach. “The Royal Commission’s proposal is the result of 18 months of research, over 3500 submissions, and discussions with leading international advisors on metropolitan governance. It is a solid piece of evidence-based work,” Mr Wilson said. In contrast, the Government had “fundamentally misunderstood” the problem in Auckland

Yet another voice speaking out against the rush job the National/ACT government are pushing on Auckland. This time from an indisputable expert in the field of public policy, governance and business. The first bill will be passed under urgency today, the people of Auckland, and indeed all people in New Zealand (it will have an effect on the whole country) need to contact their representatives in order to have their voices heard. Remember also it is not just Rodeny Hide to blame (though he takes a lion’s share) it is important to remember John Key and his National Party are pushing this forward with their votes.