March 13, 2017
Rallies put water quality on political agenda
The poor quality of water nationwide is provoking a wave of protests from communities frustrated at what’s seen as a lack of government commitment to getting on top of the problem.
Airini Forbes has organised a Save Our Water Rally at noon today outside the Gisborne District Council office.
She says signs of degradation levels are all around, such as the high algae and e-coli levels at the Rere Falls and Rockslide on the Wharekopae River which often makes the popular tourist destination unsafe for swimming.
"I know they’re doing some planting up there, vegetation to help create natural filters to prevent the run off going into the river but, we need to be more aware and do more. If the community and citizens can help plant and be more involved and the more we voice our concerns the more that can happen, that can be done," says Airini Forbes.
The Gisborne rally is timed to coincide with the handing over of a petition at parliament raising concerns about pollution, water and wastewater management, irrigation, and the activities of water bottling companies.
FULL INTERVIEW WITH AIRINI FORBES
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