OTAGO POLITICAL ASSOCIATION.

Otago Witness, Issue 905, 3 April 1869, Page 3

OTAGO POLITICAL ASSOCIATION.

INAUGURATION MEETING.

A meeting to inaugurate the recently formed Otago Political Association was held last Tuesday at the Masonic Hall, Moray Place. Mr Thomas Callender presided.

After the rules of the Association had "been read by the Hon. Sec. , Mr W. S. Douglas, and the minutes ox previous meetings read and adopted,

The Ciiajioian spoke as follows :—: — Gentlemen — You have heard from our Secretary the origin aud rules, and it now devolves on me to urge and recommend this Association to your consideration, and enforce its claims on you, — trusting that those who are already members may all be led to take an active interest in its operations, and that those who are not members may be induced, at once, to east in their lot with us, that the end we seek may be rapidly and effectually accomplished — the regeneration of political life in Otago. I need not, Gentlemen, occupy your time in defining or expatiating on the characteristics of constitutional liberty ■ — far less refer to the extraordinary privileges the Constitution of Britain bestows on her sons. The growth of ages, gathering strength and beauty from all the bitter blasts of adversity and the sunshine of prosperity, it has grown with the growth of tlie State, and casting its roots deep in the minds and hearts of her children, the British Constitution stands proudly preeminent among the Constitutions of the world as the most stable, comprehensive, liberal, and purest form of government. But of this you are all aware, and thoiigh many perhaps cannot define its v/onderful incongruities (one of its sources of strength), orbeableto comprehend all its advantages theoretically, Gentlemen, we know and feel practically we enjoy blessings which, bought by our ancestors' selfdenials, sufferings, and lives, we value so highly that we are prepared to defend them by treasure and blood. But though I thus refrain from treating of the advantages of the British Constitution, I cannot omit to refer to the responsibilities and duties of those who enjoy the rights bestowed by it. There is one fixed law of the world, wisely ordained by a beneficent Creator and Ruler — that is, nothing given to be hoarded, abused, or wasted — but everything in the material and spiritual worlds to be used for the general good. We are not self- existing units — independent of other units — but units of a compound whole, and it is as true of the body politic, as of an individual member, though not so easily appreciable — that if one member suffers all the members suffer with it. There is no right, privilege, or talent given but what we are bound to use to the best advantage, whether it be wealth or mind, health or strength, influence or power, and you will find that it is exactly in proportion as a nation uses or abuses these blessings that it is either prosperous or declining. The abuse of power by any section of the community is, you will generally find, brought about by the utter neglect of the body of the people to take that interest in their government which they ought to do. Hence che folly of such a people endowed with political powers, but constantly ignoring their claims — complaining of misgovernment. For the exercise of the electoral franchise (so common that we may call it universal), is a trust committed neitherjto be neglected nor abused, and yet is, there anything to which more indifference generally is shewn ? The reason of this we may trace to several causes, and in treating of these, I must be understood as referring to this part of our country , where I am sorry to say it is so conspicuous. One very prominent cause is the influx year after year of new colonists, who very soon acquire the rightß and privileges of the franchise, but who cannot so easily acquire a knowledge of the complicated Constitution of New Zealand. Familiar with their native laws — they find here also a Constitutional Government, but differing so widely from that which they knew from their youth up, that it becomes a study to gain an insight into, far less satisfactorily to unravel its mysteries. Hence, what does not present any immediate prospect of being easily overcome, or adding to our gains, is too often thrown aside as useless. The migratory habits of a new colony not only tend to, but encourage, indifference to anything but what pertains to self. Whatever seems to lead towards present advancement attracts attention, and banishes a prudent political care for the future. The want of an intelligent and enlightened acquaintance with the principles of self-government, and the measures best calculated to benefit the whole, has this twofold bad effect — it creates a creed as uncertain as the wind, consequently destroys any continuous effort to gain an object, and produces at the best suph a very imperfect legislation thatitrequiresconstant amendment. Some

legislative acts may, and no doubt are, intended for the present, but legislation is not only for time but for the future, and the man who not only shuts his eyes to misgovernment, but deliberately abstains from all interference, commits to society present and to come a crime, the end of which no one can foresee. Had our forefathers been as indifferent as we have been, what would our native land be now 1 and how few among us can honestly declare, that as far as we know, we have not been the passive instruments of entailing on our children evils that may take generations to eradicate — costing turmoils and revolutions 1 It is no light matter, gentlemen, to make laws for a nation, on the contrary, it ought to engage the serious attention of all. It may, perhaps, be said, that there is no great vital principle we require to contend for. Well, it may be so ; but this we all know, that periodically the people have been roused — or rather summoned to rise and engage in political warfare — on what were represented to be vital subjects. Whether they were vital subjects or no is not for me to affirm or deny — with that, at present, I have nothing to do. The fact remains, that the dry bones of political Otago may have exhibited at different periods some signs of life, but only quickly to sink back into their former state. I need not refer at any length to prove the want of interest, as shown in our past history, in political matters. Suffice it to say that, when the election of a member of Assembly took place, publicly announced days before, one solitary elector only should put in an appearance, and to prevent the writ falling void, a despatch had to be sent off for a seconder ; that at a late election, when fully 2000 electors were capable of exercising the franchise, not half the number would take the trouble to record their votes, when all knew that very important measures affecting us in this province were hanging over our heads. Now, gentlemen, the case stands thus, either the candidates were the best that could be brought forward, and therefore had a right to demand a token of the confidence of the electors, which co uld only be done by a deep er interest being shown ; or if not the best, the crime was greater by not putting forward others who possessed a larger share of the confidence of the electors. lam far, gentlemen, from blaming all, many no doubt did conscientiously abstain from taking any interest — still the fact is palpable to all that a continuous and intelligent interest has not been taken in our representation. I may be permitted to refer also to the repeated attempts to form Separation Leagues and Societies, all of which came to nought. Now, if, as an observer at public meetings could easily see, the movement was almost a universal favourite, and that nothing on the hustings pleased so well as Separation, why, if it was an intelligent and enlightened conviction, was the movement so invariably unfortunate ? If it was not an intelligent and enlightened conviction, certainly it deserved its death. These and other instances that might be given, evidence the want of interest exhibited by us here. In fact, the interest we, in Dunedin take in political affairs may be summed up as an occasional attendance on meetings in the Theatre, to cheer or hoot as the case may be ; to pass strong resolutions, never act on them after, and forget them. It is to cure this cold and indifferent feeling on political matters that the Otago Political Association has been founded ; and permit me very shortly to bring its constitution under your notice. How very few have ever read, far less studied, the constitution ; and until this is done we cannot defend our rights or take the smallest credit for performing our duties. The constitution must be a foundation on which we build our structure. The knowledge of what the state requires of us, and what is due to us by the state, can only be gathered from this compact binding on all. But this constitution is not unalterable, and you will easily understand that we cannot properly consider any amendment or alteration, unless we know thoroughly the, part that is to be thus treated, and its general bearing on the whole. Nothing has struck me more than the very general total want of all reason or argument displayed on the hustings and at public meetings and in conversations with electors, in favour of, or in opposition to, any political change. I speak, gentlemen, of my own experience, and attribute all spasmodic ebullitions of political feeling, aa well as the deadness commonly prevailing, to the want of an enlightened political education. This Association, therefore, has in view as one of its chief objects, to make all its members intimately acquainted with our Constitution, and laws. For this purpose, yourCommitteewill make arrangements so that at least once a month an address he read, treating on a leading political subject ; and your Committee are confident that those gentlemen who will address

you, will do all they can to place their subject before you in all its bearings in the clearest and plainest manner possible. And as the address will be announced at least one month previous to its delivery, the Committee confidently rely on any member considering the subject not only after, but before the address is given, that if a discussion should arise it may be practical, because well considered. But while obtaining knowledge on general political subjects, the rules show that another and very important subject is — to watch the course of legislation. To do this properly, we must depend on our representatives, and all Otago's other representatives who wish well to this Association, and through it to Otago and New Zealand, to give us every possible information on political movements and changes at the earliest possible moment. You will thus be called on to caretully consider and analyse all measures introduced into the House of Assembly or the Provincial Council. But our rules provide for another object — to influence the course of legislation. I need not say to you that this must follow ; and, gentlemen, I believe that if the previous objects I have already mentioned are carried faithfully into practice, our decisions, ac•Dmpanied as they will and must be wirh solid substantial arguments, will tend much to retard, alter, amend, support, or overthrow any measure we may give our voices on. These are the objects the Association have in view. It asks no member to conform to any political creed, or to follow any political leader. It recognises the fact, that difference of opinion is absolutely necessary to form correct and enlightened opinion ; it therefore acknowledges the right of every member to be heard, and his opinions to be weighed — it desires that no source of information, no argument for «r against any measure, be withheld, but all brought to be tested. Let no one object that it will be a debating society. I trust that all the members will aim at a higher standard, and then there will be a3 little danger of its degenerating into a debating society as either the Provincial Council or the Legislative Assembly. If, gentlemen, we faithfully and honestly carry out these objects, we will fit ourselves for the highest and noblest rights we enjoy as citizens. The very fact that our country entrusts us with the election of our law givers, demands that we should fit ourselves for its exercise. The advantages of such a society will be apparent to you all. It will keep up a steady interest in all political matters affecting the well- being of ourselves and descendants. It will prevent us being outwitted, deceived, or misrepresented. I have no hesitation in saying that with the revival of political life, the seriou3 office of representative will not be allowed to go begging, but that candidates will arise, who, educated directly or indirectly by the influence of this Association, will join to honesty of purpose an amount of intelligence and political knowledge such as has been too often awanting. The Committee desire the co-operation of all electors, and will rejoice if every district in our province would organise and actively carry out auch an Association as this. The good we anticipate will thus become widespread. No one who seriously reflects on what an association of this kind, composed of electors, with even an average amount of energy and determination, can effect, will ever despair at not accomplishing great good. The AntiCorn Law League, which has revolutionised the world, had a smaller beginning than this Association ; but Ministers and Ministries had to succumb to it, and nations have been conquered. We shall gain no footing or influence, if faint hearted we begin the task set before us. The work may be great and arduous, but treating it lightly or indifferently will never conquer the difficulties. We ask not that you should devote time that is required for business or labour ; we wish to interfere with no duty that business, society, or the family may imperatively demand ; but there are in every one's life times which he may, without prejudice to any other duty, devote to what not only concerns himself, but those who shall follow him. I know that in the race for riches many duties are forgotten or set aside ; but could we know that a certain cause of legislation would lead to national and individual rain— all would be alarmed and strive to prevent it. The only way to prevent such a catastrophe is by a continual interest being taken in our political concerns. And, now, gentlemen, if what I have said to induce you to take an active intelligent interest in this Association is of no avail, pardon my shortcomings. Supply arguments from your own hearts and consciences, and after seriously consideringyour responsibilities, say if you are doing right, when though striving to leave to those who come after you some share of the good things of this Hfe, yon nevertheless, by your indifference, leave them a legacy of crushing Btatutes. The Chairman resumed his seat amidst general applause.

Gentlemen, members of the Association) were then called upon to address the meeting. Mr A. R. Uke said he had not come prepared with a Bpeech. He had, however, been taking a rather warm interest in the Taieri election, and he thought that that, as well as all other elections, should occupy the attention of the Association, for it was most important that eligible men should be selected as representatives. After the very able address delivered by the President, he did not think it was necessary that he should detain the meeting longer. Mr PvENNiE, of Messrs Rennie and M'Gregor, also addressed the meeting. He remarked that a great apathy had been shewn here in regard to political affairs, and if the Association did nothing more than rouse the people to a sense of the necessity of their taking a warmer interest in political affairs, a great deal would accomplished.

Mr R. S. Dods said it was not expected that he should come forward to make a political speech, but simply to make a few remarks as a member ot the Committee in support of the objects of the Association. He was at all times willing to aid in any scheme which had for its object the social welfare of the community, and especially an association of this nature. He did not think it advisable that he should address the meeting at any length, for the arguments of the Chairman, which had been laid before them in a clear, eloquent, and convincing manner, were quite sufficient for the purposes of the Association. — (Applause.) There was not a thinking man in Otago but would admit the necessity of, and the advantages attendant upon, an association of this kind. He would call attention to the laws adopted by our legislative bodies — particularly the Insolvent Act. — (Applause.) That among others was & perfect disgrace to any country. They bore upon them the impress of the want of thought, and a want of that due care for the interests of the people that should be shown. If the electors had thrown off the apathy which they displayed at an earlier stage, and had taken that interest in Dolitics which it was their bounden

duty to do, many of those laws which were condemned would not have been passed, for then gentlemen who would have properly represented the interests of the electors would have been sent to Parliament. He was prepared to give the Association a warm support, and he trusted that every man who desired to see the country advance and prosper, would also do so. In conclusion, he cmld only say that he wished the Society the success it so much deserved. — (Applause.)

Mr Simpson, North-East Valley, said he felt proud at being connected with an Association of this kind. It wa3 a long time since he had taken an active interest in politics either in the old country or in New Zealand, but he trusted that many others besides himself would see the necessity of displaying a greater concern for political affairs than they had hitherto done. Many measures had been passed in the General Assembly and Provincial Council which would have been rejected, if the electors had been more mindful of their interests. Nearly all the great political movements in the old country had been conducted under the auspices of similar associations, composed chiefly of the middle and working classes, and the people had the same chance of succeeding here as those whom they left behind them in Great Britain. He sincerely trusted that the Association would be successfully established ; if it wa3, the effect that it would have upon our senators would be beneficial, for knowing that such an Association existed they would take care that they would not act contrary to the wishes and interests of the community . — (Applause. )

The Chairman then requested Mr John Bathgate to address the meeting.

Mr Bathgate said it was impossible to resist such a call. Indeed it was impossible for any one who had the real interests of his adopted country at heart, to resist expressing his sympathy with that Association. They had not only had occasion to mourn the apathy that was shown in political matters by the electors generally, but also to mourn over the conduct of some of the representatives for Danedin in the General Assembly — (applause) ; and he had no doubt there were many of the electors who had endeavoured to find a remddy. He had reflected for a long time past what plan or machinery could be devised and brought into operation would have the effect of animating the political atmosphere, aud inducing the representatives to act together and more in the interests of those whom they represented. He had some time ago suggested to some friends that the only way out of the difficulty was to form a similar Association, which should be called the Otago Association, but the apathy now complained of then existed, and in consequence his suggestion tell to the ground. Be-

eently he made similar ' suggestions with no better success. It seemed that although the opinions he expressed were perfectly right, he was not the proper man to bring them forward. However, he was happy to say that a scheme similar to that he advocated, had been introduced by the Otago Political Association with every prospect of success. He felt confident that, speaking from a political point cf view, the labours of the Committee would be productive of the greatest blessing — in fact, he believed it would be productive of more good than anything that had taken place during the fiye y^ars that he had resided in Otago. He had therefore much pleasure in expressing his sympathy with the movement, and he trusted that it would be carried out devoid of personal feeling. — (Hear, hear.) One of the wisest men in New Zealand, Judge Richmond — (applause) — told him long ago that the origin of all our political apathy, carelessness, and indifference was our selfishness. — (Hear, hear.) That many persona came to the colony and seemed to expect to get on in the race of life at the expense of others, instead of combining and attempting to do the greatest Rood for the greatest mimber. There had been too much of that selfishness. There was another reason for the existence of the apathy which had been so much complained of. Four or five years ago men came to the colony who had no intention of remaining ; who came here, in fact, merely to take their chance in the general scramble for wealth. He would suggest that they should endeavour to make it an honour to be a member of the Association. That their topics should be discussed in a calm, and he would almost say a solemn manner, and that they should not accept as a member every man who offered himself. Let it be understood that it was an honour to belong to the Sociecty, and its proceedings would then have additional weight. If ever there was a crisis which required the careful watchfulness of the electors, it was that which existed at the present time. They could not open their eyes in fact without seeing that there was a great crisis around them, which could only be overcome by the exertions of earnest, honest men — such as he would say that Association was composed of — sitting down and discussing quietly the cause and- effect, considering the best remedy, and instructing their representatives accordingly. They would be able to take a calm view of political matters, \minfluenced by and away from the conflicts of party strife. In proof of what he had stated, when alluding to the crisis, he had merely to speak of what was now going on. We were spendingLlOOO a day — perhaps LISOO or L2OOO was nearer the mark. We were spending the first sum mentioned, howevor, and when they considered the amount of taxation that the people in this little island had to bear, it would, he thought, be admitted that there was a great necessity for union amongst those who had the interest of the country at heart. He could only say that if he had a hobby, it was that of association. Histoi*y told them that it wa3 power. If, therefore, they were wise, let them unite in a compact, firm body, and they would then be capable of anything. The greatest power for good was the greatest number, and one of the greatest in England was a Society which was started by a few earnest men at Rochdale a number of years ago. There never was a meeting held of the Social Science Congress, but its time was tauen up with the consideration of the Cooperative movement. That was simply union, association, co-operation. He had no doubt that if the proceedings of the Association were properly conducted, the happiest results would attend it. — (Applause.) Mr W. H. Reynolds, M.H.R. also spoke in the interests of the Association. He said he had many times felt, when taking his seat as a member of the General Assembly, that he would have been better satisfied if he could have been made more conversant with the views of the electors from time to time. In fact, many of the members had felt somewhat discouraged by there being no expression of opinion either for or against a measure. He trusted that for the future more attention would be given to matters which might come before the General Assembly as well as the Provincial Council.

Mr T. Birch, M.H.R., after speaking in eulogistic terms of the address delivered by the Chairman, remarked upon the benefits such an Association would confer, and said he should at all times be delighted to receive suggestions from the Association. He would do all in his power to further its interests, and he would also endeavour to supply the members with the various acts and ordinances that might come before the General Assembly. He believed that he should be materially assisted by Mr Reynolds, and he begged to be allowed to take that opportunity of stating that he perfectly agreed with Mr Reynolds, except in regard

to some matters of detail, and in regard to -which he trusted that gentleman would ultimately shew a disposition to yield. They were, however, opposed to each other as regarded the cemetery at the north side of the city ; but even if a bill were not passed in connection with it, he did nob think there was anything to prevent their taking the ground. Notwithstanding that the Association was based on political grounds, he thought members ought also to give a little attention to civic matters. — (Applause.) In reply to Mr Payne, who suggested that there was a discrepancy between the address of the Chairman and the speech of Mr Bathgate, as to those persons who should be eligible for membership, The Chairman explained that the rules of the Society provided that all electors could become members.

Mr R. Murray suggested that cheap copies of the Constitution Act should be printed and distributed. It having been announced that there ■were already between eighty and ninety members enrolled, The meeting separated.