The amount of resources and organisations tied up as a result of our alcohol and drug abuse is ridiculous and this includes the cost of the inhumanity bestowed upon the affected woman and children.

As a country we must look at another way.

The blame lays fairly and squarely with the voting public with the 'What's in it for me?” lolly scramble every time an election comes round.

Next are the politicians that make weak decisions and are the cause of the haves and the have nots through their taxation, social and justice policies.

Can you believe that should the legal use of cannabis for recreation be introduced, the Government will increase the funding for mental health facilities. This is like society bashing its head on the table only because they know a doctor will be handy.

It's about time society truly wakes up, takes responsibility and puts a stop to the decay all around us and introduces penalties that stop the hurt inflicted on our vulnerable women and kids.

Our police are worked off their feet, but our weak penalty system is letting their good work down.
Shame on all New Zealanders that turn a blind eye to the beatings and damage inflicted on our woman folk and children every minute of each day, day and night, all year.

D Morris, Te Puna