The fact such legislation became law in 1974 is extraordinary
enough without realizing that thirty-four years later, despite
recognition of the inequities during the years since, it remains
unchanged. If a similar bill had been passed discriminating
on any other of the protected grounds under the Human Rights
Act, (eg. racial, gender, age, or religious belief,) the outcry
would have been heard around the world. New Zealand would certainly
not be winning International Awards for its contribution towards
promoting equality and understanding nor basking in the glow
of self-satisfaction.
In his High Court decision delivered in April, Judge Dobson
made the statement, ‘the current system is
unjust but that it is legal discrimination.’
This is an extraordinary indictment on any 21st Century western
democracy. It is deplorable that the New Zealand Government
be content to justify and defend such legislative-condoned breach
of a person's rights. The expression 'the law is an ass’
could not more apt.
Please visit our website www.equity-for-illness.org.nz
for ways to support our goals. It is said that Rome wasn't
built in a day. Sadly, challenging and changing a system that
doesn't provide for the citizens takes even longer. It is no
reason not to try however. Let's all be a part of it.
Melanie Trevethick
Spokesperson/Trustee
equity-for-illness www.equity-for-illness.org.nz
