Pages tagged "High Court"
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High Court Decision The Only Right Result For Nation That Values Free Speech
24 March 2023FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
High Court Decision The Only Right Result For Nation That Values Free Speech
The Free Speech Union welcomes the decision of the High Court to reject the application to overrule the decision of the Minister of Immigration to allow Kellie-Jay entry into New Zealand. This was the only right result for a nation that values tolerance, the ability to debate, and free speech, says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.
‘The Free Speech Union joined as an intervener in this application as there was a clear interest in the speech rights of Kellie-Jay and those who wished to have her in New Zealand. Had we not joined we firmly believe that the free speech rights of Kellie-Jay would not have been properly heard out.
‘The applicants in their submissions argued that Kelly-Jay was a threat to public order, but all they could point to were expressions of her opinions. Clearly there was no actual basis for the Minister of Immigration to deny her entry into New Zealand and his decision was correctly upheld.
‘With Kelly-Jay now able to enter New Zealand, she retains the right to have her say, as do those who wish to hear her speak. Those who oppose her also now retain the chance to combat her ideas not with censorship but with counter-protest, as should be expected in a tolerant, democratic, society.
‘We expect this will not be the last we hear of this application, nor Kellie-Jay’s tour in the context of her speech rights, but nonetheless this is an important win in upholding free speech in New Zealand. If necessary, the Free Speech Union stands ready to continue the fight for New Zealanders' speech rights regardless of the subject matter.’
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Free Speech Union Granted Intervening Status In Posie Parker Judicial Review
24 March 2023FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Free Speech Union Granted Intervening Status In Posie Parker Judicial Review
The Free Speech Union will be an intervener this morning as the High Court considers whether Immigration New Zealand's decision to allow Posie Parker (Kellie-Jay Keen-Minshull) entry into New Zealand was legal, says Jonathan Ayling, Chief Executive of the Free Speech Union.
"We know that some powers that be would be pleased to see this decision reversed. We must ensure that the strongest arguments are made in favour of free speech.
"Crown Law has indicated that they will argue that there is no evidence that Posie Parker poses a harm to New Zealand. While this is a legitimate defence of INZ's decision, it is crucial there is also a principled defence of free speech.
"If the High Court decides to overrule this decision, it could set a deeply-troubling precedent for others attempting to enter New Zealand who espouse controversial views.
"Censors seeking to review Posie Parker's entry into New Zealand only give her more prominence and legitimacy. Protest peacefully, yes, but don't shut her down. This morning, we will fight to protect Kiwis' free speech (including the right to hear others' speech)."
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