Public Outcry: Record Number of Submissions on Treaty Principles Bill
The deadline for submitting feedback on the Treaty Principles Bill is fast approaching, sparking a wave of public engagement and frustration. Amid complaints of technical difficulties with the online submission portal, the New Zealand public is racing to have their voices heard on a controversial piece of legislation that aims to redefine the treaty principles.
Unprecedented Submission Numbers
As the clock ticks towards the final day for submissions on Tuesday, January 7th, Parliament’s website is inundated with an unprecedented number of submissions. The Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill has stirred massive opposition and criticism, with tens of thousands of individuals taking to the streets in protest when it first made its way through Parliament.
Technical Hurdles and Public Outcry
Reports have surfaced of individuals encountering errors and glitches while attempting to submit their feedback online. Some faced error messages, while others were unable to reach the final submission page at all. The Clerk of the House of Representatives, David Wilson, acknowledged the challenges faced by users due to the sheer volume of submissions flooding in.
Expert Insight and Expectations
University of Otago law expert, Professor Andrew Geddis, weighed in on the situation, anticipating a substantial number of submissions given the intense public interest in the matter. With groups rallying to assist individuals in submitting their feedback, the numbers are expected to soar into the tens of thousands.
Assurance and Assistance
While the website submission portal remains open until the deadline, Wilson assured users that staff would be available to address any lingering issues once submissions officially close. However, concerns loom over the fate of submissions from those unable to navigate the technical hurdles in time.
In the midst of this flurry of activity and frustration, the New Zealand public remains steadfast in their commitment to ensuring their voices are heard on this crucial matter that touches the core of the nation’s identity and values. As the deadline looms, the fate of the Treaty Principles Bill hangs in the balance, awaiting the final verdict from those who hold the power of public opinion in their hands.