Local column – Tragic loss of local life
The few weeks have been a sad time for the local community with the senseless loss of two young men in the Kapiti Lights area.
My thoughts go out to the families and friends who are grieving.
In general, Kapiti is a quiet and peaceful area popular with young families and retired people. That’s why it is such a shock to have two murders in a short space of time.
It’s great to see the police and local community have come together to work on improving safety. Improved lighting and close circuit television cameras are two actions which can make a difference in the short term.
At a higher level, the Alcohol Reform Bill currently before Parliament will be an important step towards tackling the harm caused by alcohol in our society.
The recent vote on the drinking age received a lot of attention, but as I mentioned in this column a few weeks ago, it’s worth remembering that this is only one small part of the Bill.
Once in force, it will be an offence to supply liquor to under-18s without the permission of their parents.
Kapiti Coast, Horowhenua and other local districts will be given more power over the location and opening hours of liquor outlets, and there will be set closing times for bars and off-licenses.
There will also be improved education and treatment services for those who need it.
While most people drink responsibly, we know that many don’t and this often has tragic consequences – as we’ve seen in our community over the last month or so.
Legislation alone is not going to prevent these kind of tragedies, but it will be an important start.
From my diary
*Cabinet met on Monday and Parliament is sitting all week.
*On Tuesday I hosted Levin Intermediate on a visit to Parliament.
*On Wednesday I will be at a memorial service for Bomber Command veterans at the National War Memorial, followed by a function in Parliament.
*Friday I will be at a black tie dinner to celebrate the opening of the Te Takere community centre in Levin.
*Saturday I will be at the opening of the new sports pavilion at the Kapiti hockey turf in Mazengarb Park, Paraparaumu.