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Download AudioIf the Government can have its daily press conference, it can reopen parliament.
That’s National Party co-leader Shane Reti’s argument for today’s in person session of parliament, which is going ahead despite advice from the Director General of Health against MPs travelling between regions and gathering together.
There will be just five MPs from either side in the chamber.
Dr Reti says National wanted a repeat of the Covid-response select committee chaired by then-leader during last year’s first lockdown, but in the absence of that it will use the session to highlight advice the Government is not listening to.
"You will hear what you want to hear. People will tell you what you want to hear. If I look at for example Northland currently remaining in level four, it's been real important to be out to all stakeholders and understand the impact and their views on this," he says.
Dr Reti says he was disconcerted to hear Northland mayors on a call with ministers last Friday were not warned or asked for their opinion about the region staying in lockdown with Auckland for a few days more.
He says the Government’s response to Covid is good, including for Māori, but with National’s help it could be great.
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