I disagree with Max Lewis concerning council being involved in the Rugby World Cup.
Max says 'there is a difference between costs and investments!” (which is true) but I say 'there is a difference between freedom of choice and compulsion!”
It may make perfect economic sense to capitalise on the third largest sporting event in the world, but what makes Max think council can do it better than private enterprise?
Have we been made so reliant on council that we are unable to do things for ourselves and must be forced to fund a rugby event because it's for our own good?
Where is the evidence - financially and morally (ie force over choice) - that council can do anything more efficiently or financially successful than the private sector.
Council involvement should be limited to ensuring investors and entrepreneurs are not hindered in their endeavours to make the event a success, and ensuring facilities they are in charge of are available. It shouldn't be part of their community responsibility, especially when they struggle to provide key essential services, and in times of recession.
We used to be a nation of individual thinkers but have become a nation of Sheeple - brainwashed by those on the gravy train payroll to believe we can't function without their assistance!
My grandfather fought in 2 world wars to save us from those who would impose compulsion upon us - isn't it tragic how people are so quick to forget.
Council, government and bureaucratic busybodies should be actively discouraged from interfering in all entertainment endeavours, and let those whose passion, livelihoods, and expertise are at stake provide them better than they ever could, saving ratepayers from expensive council blunders, whilst leaving opportunities for entrepreneurs and professionals to do the things they do best free of compulsion and ratepayer responsibility. Graham Clark, Kaimai.