Grant Robertson Wellington Central MP Grant Robertson is vowing to talk to police in the city about community safety measures that can be taken, following what he terms an "horrific weekend for violence in Wellington". "So very sad about the death of Phillip Cottrell," the gay MP has posted on Facebook. "My thoughts are with his family and friends," he says. Cottrell died in hospital yesterday afternoon from injuries he sustained in an assault as he walked home from his job as an overnight bulletins editor at Radio New Zealand. "It does feel to me that the city has been more violent lately. We need to address that culture, and to ensure that we all look out each other when out and about," Robertson says. "I will talk to the Police in Wellington this week about other community safety measures we can take." Meanwhile Wellington group Queer Avengers is offering an opportunity for people to meet and talk about Cottrell's death, which it recognises has caused sadness within the community. "It is important for us all to acknowledge at the time of creating this event, we DO NOT know if it has been a 'hate crime', therefore this special meeting will reflect this," the group says. "It may also prove useful for us to discuss this matter and share grief before our Saturday event. If you would like to join us, know someone who has not yet attended a QA meeting, but may also wish to join us, please feel free to do so and please spread the word. "The meeting will not take a formal structure, you will not be expected to speak if you do not wish, it is just a chance for community to join together." Anyone who needs someone to talk to in the meantime can call 0800 OUTLINE You can pay tribute to Phillip Cottrell here
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Monday, 12th December 2011 - 11:06am