EYEWITNESS NEWS. 01/12/1988

News and Current Affairs.

Main Stories:
A report on the Government’s plans for Maori devolution, which many tribes remain sceptical of. Speakers: Jack Wihongi (Elder), Marea Brown (Waipareira Trust), Moana Jackson (Lawyer).

The number of heroin addicts seeking methadone treatment has overwhelmed Auckland’s drug clinic, which is now turning patients away. Speakers: Byron Robinson (Methadone Patient), Dr Donna Kippax (Substance Abuse Services).

A report on the Italian Mafia.

The space shuttle Atlantis is due to take off tomorrow, with growing speculation about the military purpose of the mission.

Other Stories:
The Government’s latest package aimed at fighting long term unemployment has won widespread approval. The $100 million programme called “Restart” will provide up to a years work for long term unemployed, with the Government paying their wages. Speakers: Phil Goff (Employment Minister), Winston Peters (Opposition Employment Spokesman).

Foreign investors in New Zealand forests and the Bank of New Zealand will have to sell their majority interests if National wins the 1990 election. The party has released a position paper which limits foreign ownership of both assets. Meanwhile the Government revealed today that no restraints will be put on foreign investment in state owned forests.

France has exploded a nuclear device in the South Pacific. Speaker: Julie Miles (Greenpeace).

Australia has given the Yugoslav Government twenty-four hours to hand over the security guard involved in a shooting incident.

Flooding in Bangladesh.

Three town councils in South Africa have reintroduced racial segregation.

Sir Joh Bjelke-Petersen gave evidence at a corruption inquiry.

British politicians have called for the resignation of an elderly judge who freed a convicted child molester.

World AIDS day has been marked in New Zealand.

The failed contributory mortgage company RSL has been wound up.

Finance news.

John Hart says he is pleased to be back on the All Blacks selection panel. Speaker: John Hart (Selector).

Maori news summary.