JOSEPH MOONEY (National—Southland): Thank you, Mr Speaker. I rise to speak on the Palmerston North Reserves Empowering Amendment Bill. This is a good local bill which has been brought before the House. National is very happy to support this, as National stands up for councils as strong local voices that are essential to a thriving local democracy. This is a good example of this and I commend the member Tangi Utikere, who has brought this to the House as the local member for Palmerston North.