Election 2008 Dunedin North and Dunedin South candidates respond to your questions.
AS part of The Star 's Election '08 coverage we offered all candidates standing in the Dunedin South and Dunedin North electorates the opportunity to answer some written questions compiled by The Star readers and The Star and Otago Chamber of Commerce staff. Candidates' answers were limited to 100 words per question in this week's The Star and were edited where necessary. Their extended answers are shown here.
THE QUESTIONS
1. Rail What are the chances of restoring a commuter rail service between Mosgiel and Dunedin during the next electoral term, and what is your medium/long-term vision for commuter/passenger rail services through Dunedin and the South? (Brighton resident Lorraine Johnston)
2. Taxation Will your party repeal taxation on unearned capital gain on foreign income that is in Taxation (Business Taxation and Remedial Matters) Act 2007, section 11, Foreign Investment Fund Income. (John Horrocks, Mornington)
3. Crime How would you address the escalation in violent crime, including domestic violence, in this country? (Business and Professional Women's group Dunedin/The Star/Chamber of Commerce)
4. Power What energy policies would you champion and what would you do to help Dunedin in terms of its old, cold homes? (The Star/Chamber of Commerce)
5. Health What is your opinion of population-based funding and what changes, if any, would you make to the current health system? (The Star/Chamber of Commerce)
6. Stadium Do you support the proposed Awatea St stadium? (The Star/Chamber of Commerce)
THE ANSWERS
1. Rail
I support re-establishment of the Mosgiel-Dunedin rail commuter service, as well as the passenger service between Dunedin and Christchurch.
2. Taxation
Yes, we would repeal the taxation of capital gain on foreign investments, because someone should not be penalised for acquiring wealth. The ALCP believes that taxation from a regulated cannabis industry worth $2 billion annually will more than cover the costs of avoiding capital gains tax.
3. Crime
Only ALCP can tackle the law and order problems facing the country. Illicit drugs are the major source of income for organised crime. Cannabis is by far the most popular illicit drug and therefore removing it from the black market will undermine organised criminal activity. It will also offer a legal alternative to alcohol, the cause of most domestic violence.
4. Power
The ALCP is the only party with an answer to the "Energy Crisis''. Cannabis is 77% cellulose, producing at least four times the biofuel of any other crop. Hemp is also used as an effective housing insulation. We can power our country on environmentally friendly, locally produced fuel.
5. Health
The ALCP will ensure that hospitals that service large populations receive more funding. We are the only party than will reducing waiting lists by improving the health of New Zealanders. Cannabis is one of the best remedies for cancer. Its proven ability to treat thousands of conditions has been largely suppressed. ALCP will completely integrate cannabis into the health system, following the lead of the government's introduction of Sativex.
6. Stadium
Yes, I support a new oval stadium to accommodate the multi-million dollar 20/20 cricket market and a variety of other events. This will help attract tourists to the area.