Speaker Reprimands Hon David Seymour Following Parliament Incident

In a recent address to the House, the Speaker delivered a pointed reprimand to Hon David Seymour after he drove his vehicle onto the steps of New Zealand's Parliament on a Monday. This incident, reminiscent of an event from 2003, has prompted discussions on security protocols and member conduct within one of the world’s most accessible legislative bodies.

Incident Recap

On this recent Monday, Hon David Seymour found himself at the center of controversy when he drove onto the steps of Parliament. The situation was promptly resolved by a security officer who intervened, preventing further escalation. This incident echoed an earlier similar occurrence in 2003 and raised concerns about adherence to enhanced security measures established since that time.

Speaker’s Reaction

The Speaker expressed strong disapproval of Seymour's actions during his address to the House. He commended the security officer for his quick judgment under pressure but emphasized that such behavior is unacceptable, especially given the heightened security protocols since 2003. The Speaker pointed out that there are no Standing Orders supporting a referral to the Privileges Committee in this case.

While Mr. Seymour has sent an apology letter expressing regret for any offense caused, the possibility of prosecution remains a matter for law enforcement authorities, as it was following the 2003 incident.

Emphasis on Parliamentary Openness

Despite the breach, the Speaker highlighted his commitment to keeping New Zealand's Parliament one of the most open and accessible globally. He expressed hope that this openness can continue unimpeded, balancing security with accessibility for many years to come.

This incident underscores ongoing challenges in maintaining a secure yet transparent parliamentary environment, prompting reflections on procedural adequacies and member responsibilities.