Forget flag changes says poll, RSA

 

Opinions have changed somewhat regarding the New Zealand flag debate if a recent NZ Herald Digipoll is anything to go by.

A year ago 40 percent of those questioned were in favour of change to some degree. This sentiment now carries only 25 percent support.

Similarly 70 percent said ‘no’ to any design changes while 25% hinted at a new look to some degree.

Opinions were divided 50/50 in 2010 when a possible change was first mooted with the silver fern being a front runner for an alternative flag design.

RSA members believe that Anzac Day and Gallipoli commemorations have led to such a massive shift in support given what has been achieved under the present banner.

The government proposed two referenda, the legislation for which passed its first Parliament hearing on 12 March 2015 with a vote of 76 to 43

The first referendum is planned to be held in November or December this year. It will ask voters to rank any number of the four design options in the Flag Consideration Panel's shortlist.

The second referendum is planned for April 2016 asking voters to choose between the preferred alternative design from the first referendum and the current flag using the ‘first past the post’ system.

However, along with an advertising blitz around the three or four new designs due to begin shortly, the referendums and other costs of the process would come to $25.7 million.

An overwhelming 80 percent of those polled believed the first referendum should ask if the flag should change at all.

This week the RSA has called on the Select Committee considering the Bill to withdraw it to a more appropriate time to allow New Zealanders to commemorate the milestones of the First World War without distraction.

Royal NZ RSA President, BJ Clark, told committee members that the timing of the Bill is particularly insensitive.

“New Zealanders treasure our flag. It was proudly flown at Gallipoli to mark the centenary of the Anzac campaign and at Anzac Day ceremonies throughout New Zealand in front of record numbers of people,” BJ Clark says.

“We acknowledge the right of all New Zealanders to have a say in the flag that represents us, but it’s totally inappropriate that this debate occurs as we commemorate the centenary of the First World War.” n What do you think? Send your opinion to info@mangawhaifocus.co.nz.