June 23, 2015
Freshwater iwi group endorses environment commissioner
The Freshwater Iwi Leaders Group is backing criticism by the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment of the way water is being managed.
Spokesperson Roku Mihinui says improved water quality has to be a key objective of any policy.
The commissioner, Jan Wright, says some lakes and streams are below bottom lines and many others are not far above them, with water quality continuing to decline.
She says while last year’s Freshwater National Policy Statement was a positive step, there are elements that are absent or unclear.
Among her recommendations was to clarify the requirement for councils to maintain or improve water quality.
Dr Wright also wants estuaries to be covered by the policy.
Mr Mihinui says iwi want to work with the crown to develop mechanisms that will improve water quality while also allowing people to use freshwater in a sustainable way.
He says any policy needs to recognise the rights, interests and responsibilities of iwi and hapu.
Copyright © 2015, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com