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Archived Press Releases 2007 31st May 2007

MERCURY HYPOCRISY!

(31st May 2007)

The politicians baying for Mercury’s blood show political hypocrisy and cowardice at its worst according to a criminal justice watchdog organization.

Politicians have been calling for blood following the death of pre-school teacher Folole Muliaga after Mercury Energy cut off the power to her house which in turn cut off her oxygen supply.

At least three separate inquires have been ordered to uncover the truth of what happened and police are considering laying criminal charges.

But the Sensible Sentencing Trust says that politicians’ calling for Mercury to be held accountable and responsible is nothing short of political hypocrisy and cowardice at its worst.

Trust spokesman Garth McVicar said, "It was a political decision that allowed Graham Burton to be released on Parole, he then murdered Karl Kuchenbecker, but where were the politicians then?"

"Only yesterday we learnt that Joe Kaukasi, who was one of six youths involved in the murder of Michael Choy, is on work release – after three misconduct charges in prison and serving only a fraction of his sentence."

Mr McVicar said hundreds of New Zealanders have lost their lives in tragic circumstances caused by political bungling and inaction.

"I feel very sorry for Mrs Muliaga and her family but for politicians to be attacking Mercury Energy is the worst case of double standards I have ever seen."

"These same politicians know with certainty that many of the offenders they release on parole will go on to kill or hurt people and yet they still release them."

"Politicians seem to think it is okay when their policies cause a loss of innocent lives but as soon as it is someone else they want accountability – it must work both ways," said McVicar.

Regards,

Garth McVicar
National Spokesperson,
Sensible Sentencing Trust.