Forgive me for being a little self- indulgent, this week, but I’m becoming increasingly concerned at what I’m hearing about new rules, surrounding modifying wheelchair drive vehicles. Apparently the word is that automated backs and head rests are going to be made compulsory. I’m told by qualified engineers that if these rules come into effect these modifications will cost between $100,000 to a $150,000.

Now hang on a minute mate. I’m all for safety but who is going to pay for this lot?

I have been driving from my “locked in” wheelchair for over ten years now with no problems at all. I even survived an incident where a truck, full of frozen chickens, decided to shove me from behind.

Judging by the annual “show off” day at the Auckland spinal unit these wheelchair drive vehicles are becoming an increasingly popular way to drive. Drivers of such vehicles have built their life around this mode of transport. Some, like myself, have even carved out a career which would not have been possible without these vans.

Now it seems a group of people are holding clandestine meetings, making life changing decisions, without consulting the people who will be most affected.