Taxpayer funded gang hui

There is shock and disbelief at a secret meeting held between criminal gangs and the Minister for Maori Affairs.

Senior Mongrel Mob and Black Power members were flown to Auckland at the taxpayer's expense for a hui with Pita Sharples.

The meeting was called in response to concerns about gang and community violence.

It is thought to have cost upwards of $6,000.

Act Party Law and Order spokesman David Garrett says he is astounded.

He says for Dr Sharples to say the only way to deal with gangs is to divert them into more productive work beggars belief.

David Garrett says it is sinister that every party in parliament recognises gangs are criminal organisations except the Maori Party.

- NEWSTALK ZB