MP makes dreaded debut

By EUGENE BINGHAM

When his big moment in Parliament came, Nandor Tanczos really let his hair down.

Those famous dreadlocks, normally tied up for his appearances in the House in accordance with the dress code, were back yesterday where they belong, swaying down his back as he delivered his maiden speech.

It was certainly a unique speech - how many other MPs have begun with an acknowledgment of their Rastafarian faith?

"Greetings in the name of the Creator, the most high Jah Ras Tafari," he pronounced.

After a series of greetings, the Green MP moved through a menu of food, justice and environmental issues. And, yes, he mentioned cannabis.

"I remember seeing an interview with Bob Marley and he was asked why cannabis was such a big issue for him. He replied that cannabis was not a big thing for him - it was 'just a plant, y'know. It's a big thing for you.' I know what he is talking about."

New Zealand needed to get over its obsession with cannabis, and decriminalise the drug.

Mr Tanczos said he planned to introduce legislation to allow minor criminal convictions to be wiped when there had been no reoffending. He also promised to push for a justice system not so heavily based on jail sentences.

Another newcomer, the Labour MP for Titirangi, David Cunliffe, used his maiden speech to set out how he intends to fight for "Westies."

Bemoaning the inadequacy of hospital services in Waitakere City, he said: "My constituents fear for their lives in ambulances stuck in Harbour Bridge traffic."

He also called for more police, education and technology for the West.