I was quite interested in the recent council meeting where the proposal to have a permanent rainbow crossing in the city was approved.

The main reasoning for this, was a term called inclusivity, whereby all residents of all diversity were to be embrace, and in recognition of this the rainbow crossing was thought to be appropriate.

Although I do not necessarily agree with this particular motion, I applaud the new council for their forward-thinking.

I read in the Bay of Plenty Times (September 11) that the council was presented with a petition signed by about 860 residents who were in favour of this motion.  Jolly good.

I also believe the current population of Tauranga-Mount Maunganui-Papamoa is about 160,000. Therefore the 860 in favour of the rainbow crossing is less than 1% of the current population.

This is good news for everyone, as we can all approach the new council with confidence when promoting our ideals.

(Abridged)

Mike Loakman, Ohauiti.