APATHY” OF CITIZENS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29508, 9 May 1961, Page 17

APATHY” OF CITIZENS

Question Meetings Proposed

From time to time, discussions had taken place on the functions of the association in the periods between elections, and the view had been expressed that publie meetings should be held on topics of the moment. But in the light of recent experience, it would be a waste of effort try to promote public meetings unless there was a strong demand from the public to express Itself on a particular topic, said the chairman of the general committee (Mr H. P. Smith) in his report adopted at the annual meeting of the Christchurch Citizens’ and Ratepayers’ Association last evening.

’’lf an example is needed of the disinclination of people to meet together and be addressed, one may refer to the recent meeting for ‘jets for Harewood.’ This was well organised and well publicised, and undoubtedly is a topic which had widespread public support—but the attendance was poor,’’ said Mr Smith.

It appeared the average citizen was not prepared to venture forth from his home to a meeting, and he probably felt that those whose responsibility it was could address him by radio. The advent of television would probably lessen the numbers

attending public meetings, if overseas experience was repeated here. Mr Smith suggested that between elections the association could well try to interest electors by making its representatives on local bodies available for questioning. “I suggest that the general committee be asked to consider the holding of a public meeting at which there would be no addresses.

but representatives of the various local bodies should answer questions. It might

groups of councillors and other representatives to meetings of residents’ and burgesses' associations.”

Messrs R. H. Stewart and F L. Langley, members of the board of managers of Christchurch Technical College, were granted leave of I absence by the board last