Choice Not Chance: Gamblefree Day

The end doesn’t justify the means

I don’t remember a great deal about my secondary school history classes, but I do recall the term ‘realpolitik’ to describe where ‘the political end justifies the means’. This is when politicians seek to achieve maximum benefit for a nation irrespective of whether a particular policy is moral or ethical. Because it’s driven by political expediency, this approach can require compromise. For instance, not all citizens necessarily benefit fairly or equally; some may be disadvantaged or even suffer.

To my mind, there’s too much ‘realpolitik-ing’ going on in New Zealand at the moment on the back of heightened anxiety about the global credit crunch and the state of New Zealand’s balance sheet.

Government recently struck what I’d call a ‘realpolitik’ deal with Sky City Entertainment to fund a new international convention and exhibition centre for Auckland. It’s being heralded as an exciting development for the city, bringing jobs and increasing tourism. Even better, ratepayers won’t have to bankroll the $350 million dollar project. But in a quid pro quo, Sky City has asked the Government to alter legislation to allow more gaming tables and pokie machines at its Auckland casino. So, is public policy now for sale in New Zealand?

Gambling is not a harmless leisure pursuit; it’s a social hazard that brings misery to problem gamblers, their families and their children. But perhaps we’re prepared to overlook this if we get a flash building, or if gaming trusts fund our child’s new rugby kit?

In difficult economic times such as these, when easy money is especially appealing, we need to be especially vigilant to ensure that politicians and powerbrokers don’t, either deliberately or inadvertently, cut ethical corners. We also need to challenge a funding culture that encourages community groups and charities to be so dependent on the proceeds of gambling.

It’s an election year, a good time to remind our politicians that we require them to make sound, ethical decisions for the long term, even if that might sometimes be uncomfortable and inconvenient in the short term. Surely that’s what we’re paying them to do?

Major Christina Tyson

Bible Verse

Psalm 23:1 - New Living Translation
The Lord is my shepherd; I have all that I need.

Ngā Waiata 23:1
He hīmene nā Rawiri. Ko Ihowā tōku hēpara; e kore ahau
e hapa.