Synod Correspondence with Members of Parliament

Granting of Special Visas – Gaza

At our Synod on 14 September 2024, the Diocese of Dunedin made the following resolution:

“That this Synod calls on the government via appropriate ministers and members  of the opposition to urgently establish a special visa for family members of the New Zealand Palestinian community affected by the war in Gaza. And to make every diplomatic effort to ensure the safe passage for these family members out of this war zone.”

We are very aware that in this developing situation, the news appears to go from bad to worse, especially with the escalation of this over the last month. Although this may appear to be a “small” request in the middle of an increasingly complex and distressing situation in the Middle East, we are aware that granting special visas is something that our country can do, making a powerful statement that we are not simply standing on the sidelines.

We have included an article from local media (5 October 2024) that expresses the heartache around this that we are aware of in our communities. We see this as being larger than any political party and a good opportunity for our government to take a lead in this space.

We look forward to hearing your response to this request and details of the steps our government is going to take.  

The Venerable Jan Clark

Vicar General

Anglican Diocese of Dunedin

Letter sent to:

Hon. Erica Stanford Minister of Immigration,

Rt. Hon. Winston Peters Minister of Foreign Affairs,

Rt. Hon. Christopher Luxon Prime Minister,

Hon. David Parker Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs,

Hon. Phil Twyford Spokesperson for Immigration,

Rt Hon. Chris Hipkins Leader of the Opposition.

Also copied to local Labour Dunedin MPs, Rachel Brooking and Ingrid Leary