Simon Bridges National Party MP simonbridges.co.nz

In my recent columns I've talked about the big issues for Tauranga. I've discussed Transport and Housing but haven't yet detailed the other big two, Law and Order and the CBD; so today I want to talk law and order.

Crime, from petty anti-social behaviour through to the most serious violence, is getting worse in our city. I could bamboozle you with statistics but I'll spare you from that today. It's inarguable though and as the locally elected MP I've talked recently to shopkeepers who've been beaten up, through to those who've been intimidated by gangs on their street, doing drug deals outside their homes. Whether it's youth gangs or the hundreds of patched members we have here, it's a massive worry.

What's worse is too often I'm told police won't do anything, and it's clear to me this non-response is growing.

When a woman in retail received a black eye from a young robber, police didn't attend. When homeowners watch multiple drug deals outside their homes, police just want to talk not act.

I don't blame police. I know they're inundated and have a tough job to do in trying circumstances. The issue is higher up within the Labour Government.

Whether it's prison riots or drug deals, Labour seems to want to apologise to the wrongdoers. I've heard a number of their MPs say: 'we can't arrest our way out of this” when what they really mean is we've given up on consequences for crime.

Yes, complex issues underlie crime but actually the answers aren't that complicated. My plan which I urge Labour to adopt would be both tough while also tackling the underlying causes. We need a beefed-up police gang unit here with the tools and powers to relentlessly tackle our growing gangs. But we also need an intensive case management programme involving all agencies to deal with issues in our shopping villages and anti-social behaviour. Finally, we must see more beds and treatment for our homeless, drug addicted and mentally unwell.