July 25, 2019
RMA reset needed for biodiversity
Forest and Bird says a review of the Resource Management Act is a chance to lay down some clear national guidance and bottom lines on species protection, water quality and urban development, as well as strengthen the voice of tangata whenua.
West Coast regional manager Nicky Snoyink says the existing act has failed to protect biodiversity and water quality.
She says Forest and Bird will seek a place on the proposed expert advisory group because of its experience responding to plans and consent applications.
It has also learned to work closely with tangata whenua on matters of joint concern.
"We have a great deal of ideas in common, about indigenous species and water especially, throughout the nation. The health of environment largely reflects the health of the people so we agree with that entirely," Ms Snoyink says.
While it's important to remove some of the barriers to development, it should not compromise good decision making or the ability of people to have their say.
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