Lynore Craig

I am dismayed at this coalition Government's decision to remove voting rights for all people serving a prison sentence, dismissing a ruling from the High Court, and recommendations of the Electoral Commission and Waitangi Tribunal. Presently, people serving a sentence of three years or less are entitled to vote.

Denying a citizen the right to vote is not part of a prison sentence- taking away one's freedom is the punishment. Voting is a fundamental right in a democratic society and the removal of that right is inconsistent with the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act.

I thought the role of the corrections system was  to rehabilitate and reintegrate people back into society. Denial of this fundamental right actually encourages exclusion from our social institutions rather than inclusion, reintegration and participation. Re-engaging with the voting process once removed from the Electoral Roll can be a barrier for many and increase negative feelings towards the whole electoral system.

A sad indictment on this government and disregard for the principles of our democracy.