Ash fall-out arrogance

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 14, Issue 646, 23 July 1996, Page 6

Ash fall-out arrogance

• How arrogant ourPrime Minister is! His comments that living and working in the shadow of a volcano is a risk we must take, portrays just how arrogant, naive and out of touch he is. These comments will do the National Party irreparable damage throughout the district. Working within the ski industry we all admit it is a risk in that low snow years will be experienced, but to have a volcano destroy the likelihood of a season is something nobody can foresee or even insure against. The effects of the volcano are no different to an earthquake shaking apart Wellington or any other town

for that matter. Although this may cause actual damage to buildings land etc., the disruptions caused by Mt Ruapehu are no different. We can be sure he will not be saying the same thing to the victims of an earthquake in the wake of such a disaster. Nobody is looking for a hand-out from the government, but in times of crisis assistance is helpful. Helen Clark at least had the foresight to come here and see for herself the hardship being caused by the eruptions and put a package forward that would help all. No such offer from the N ational go vernment. I would like to see this area take a message to Mr Bolger and his government.

We can all do this at the • forthcomingelections. I will not be making any sort of vote for the National party or their representative and I suggest that all voters in the district do the same. This way, maybe we will get the message through to them. I hope you all follow my lead and ensure Mr Bolger is aware of the feeling of this district. DON'T VOTE NATIONAL!!! in the forthcoming elections.

Graeme Petersen,

Ohakune