Larry Baldock

Hi Everyone.

The recent horrific cases of child abuse are tragic. What has happened to our country that such things can happen?

I WANT TO DRAW YOUR ATTENTION TO A SILENT PROTEST THIS WEDNESDAY AT 12.12PM. (see attachment) WE WILL BE GATHERING IN THE RED SQUARE IN TAURANGA AT 12 NOON THIS WEDNESDAY IN SUPPORT OF THIS. PERHAPS YOU COULD ORGANISE A SIMILAR GATHERING IN YOUR AREA.

And remember to take your petition forms along with you.

Not only has the Bradford Law been a complete red herring, and waste of time in dealing with this serious issue, we now have the Government announcing they want everyone to start looking over their neighbours fence to see if there are any signs of abuse happening around us.

I believe there is some merit in suggesting that we should all be trying to take responsibility for this in our communities. However the problem is that when Parliament have been so irresponsible in failing to distinguish between appropriate discipline and abuse, we will now see neighbours reporting good parents to the authorities and the development of a secret police state climate of fear.

Our second petition calling for action that will address the REAL CAUSES OF CHILD ABUSE now becomes even more relevant. We must see the Bradford law repealed and the completion of both petitions to ensure these referendums are held at next years elections are an essential part of the strategy to make changes.

With only another 100,000 signatures required before March 1st 2008 I am confident that we can meet out target. Things have definitely slowed down over the winter months but I am sure we will see more volunteers getting active again once the weather improves and the outdoor events begin again. Events like the 'Home Show,' 'Boat Show' and other festivals give us all the opportunity to present the petitions to a crowd.

I recommend you take the time to look at Family First's website http://www.familyfirst.org.nz and join their mailing list for up to date developments on this issue. In one of Bob’s recent updates he lists all the abuse cases that have occurred since the Amended sec 59 law was passed.

Congratulations must go to Andy Moore and his team who collected approx 1400 signatures a few weeks ago in a concerted effort in Christchurch. It is clear that there is still an overwhelming majority of New Zealanders who want to sign if they are presented with the petition.

I also want to congratulate Craig Hill and his team called Unity for Liberty for their efforts.

This organisation, Unity for Liberty, has been formed assist in completing the Petitions. They have had a successful campaign "Feet on Footpaths" in Howick last week. This has the potential to be multiplied in other centres. In fact I believe there is already a plan to expand the idea in Rodney.

If you would be interested in more details contact Craig Hill at craighill@maxnet.co.nz

Warm regards everyone,
Let’s not grow weary in the battle,
Larry Baldock