A community advocate working with gangs and methamphetamine users has defended patrols of bars by Maori Wardens and says they could be the best social outcome of the Rugby World Cup so far.
The Wardens are mandated by law to order drunk and violent Maori patrons as well as those who are in danger of intoxication from bars and are to be out and about during the Rugby World Cup
However, Prime Minister John Key says the law appears to be racist and some Wellington bar owners have objected to their use.
Dennis O'Reilly, who is also an adviser to the Black Power, says claims that the law is racist are absurd.
He says intervention by wardens is not demeaning and can prevent people being hospitalised, committing crime or violence, and going to jail.
Mr O'Reilly says if it is good enough to allocate large sums of money towards entertainment around the tournament then funds should also be put aside for people's security.
Dennis O'Reilly says there are often calls for Maori to address social problems and Maori Wardens do just that.
