Thread by @polemic

Arrived a touch late to the Portage Licensing Trust public meeting to see how the Paul Davies issue is handled.

Paul Davie, rather. Introduces himself as “the victim tonight”.

First up, just a local resident speaking on their own behalf, speaking “in love”, not against the Trusts. Presenting a petition with 900+ votes, stating that PD is, to paraphrase, not a nice person.

(Context: i.stuff.co.nz/national/11150…)

Crowd of maybe 20 here to observe. One sign.

A call of “a long bow” from the floor as the petitioner outlines the issues at play.

Paul Davie: “how do you know what I believe”
A: “I’ve seen the views you’ve expressed online”

Paul Davie now accusing Unite Union of putting a video out against him. Making a statement, compares himself to Joe Karam, against the UN compact! Crikey.

As in, he thinks he claims he’s being targeted because of free speech and his opposition to the UN Compact.

Now we have Don, so far being a voice of reason about having different opinions. Doesn’t think trustees should being judge/jury/execution on this issue....

...but asks the Trust host a debate with a moderator and such, about free speech. Suggests a number of voters agree with both sides and suggests a public debate would defuse the issue.

Now Carol, who apparently presented a petition about UN Compact to parliament. Oh boy. “They were concerned about housing crisis, mental health failing <yada> who can we handle a flood of unhealthy refugees”

“I started that not becuse of racism or hate, but love for our own people”

Apparently she’s paying the price for the CHCH shooter because before then everyone was behind them, but now there has been mass hysteria and people need to pull their heads in.

References Salem witch hunt, “we are getting burned at the stake” because of it. Rambling somewhat insanely now.

Local body politics eh. Paul Davie thanks Carol for her genuine emotion.

Carols husband gets a word in too. Does say “we’re all concerned for the nation”. “I’m not a racist...” references a “brown supremacist” but not naming them. But he’s “frightened to say things”. Now tacked to the new building in Glenn Eden.

And complaing about apartments and climate change.

Now Bridget, quoting specific things Paul Davie has said online. Very clearly stating the case against Paul Davie. Carol interjects to say they should stop all immigration. Bridget is assertive, points out Paul Davie doesn’t represent the community.

Now Wayne came out of curiosity (hey me too). Thinks dust needs to settle. “People who were friends are now enemies”. Doesn’t really get to the point.

Oh oh, Catherine in a pink hat. Well known maybe? This is going to be all about her it seems. Something about standing up for men because some people don’t like women standing up for men.

Family Court! Drink?

Pro-life! Drink!

Rashist, drink!

I think this might be the end of the public session. Cr Crow (Chairmen) vaccinating in closing.

Vacillating, rather. Despite his rather strong public statements to media’s being rather conciliatory in closing. Hmmm.

Cripes tho. If i had to sum that up, it’d be that the UN Compact rubbish is giving people a lot of cover for their appalling views.

I’m off home now for a very strong drink and a think about my life choices. Ho boy is there work to do.

Got a lot of thoughts but need more time. However, a huge shout out to Bridget and Linda who got up and spoke for what’s right, in front of a very hostile crowd. I (we) see you, brave individuals.

Two small follow ups. 1. It was later pointed out that “Catherine” was Kathryn Davie, i.e. Paul’s partner. Her sign read “the truth will prevail”.

2. “Carol” is Carol Sakey, who has a youtube account with titles like “The Islamic Global Invasion”, “Man Made Climate Change - What Do You Think”, “Domestic Abuse of Men”, etc. 😬.

Two weeks ago, I might’ve had a laugh at someone like that, as merely sad and unhinged. It’s not funny any more.

Update from the pres. today — Paul Davie has predictably declined to resign.