October 28, 2022
Three Waters better option than inaction
Acting Prime Minister Grant Robertson is standing firm against attacks on the Government’s plans for water infrastructure.
The so called Three Waters reform proved a rallying cry for Labour’s opponents during the local body elections, with many candidates saying they opposed the plan to shift responsibility for fresh water, waste water and storm water from councils to four regional bodies.
The proposal for co-governance of the entities, acknowledging Maori interests in the environment, also brought a lot of heat on Local Government Minister Nanaia Mahuta.
But Mr Robertson says poor water infrastructure in undermining the health and productivity of New Zealanders.
“I know the National Party says they don’t want it. Well what’s their alternative? Is their alternative to leave a situation for New Zealanders where the bills New Zealanders face mount up more and more and more or should we actually take action to provide New Zealanders with and effective and efficient set of water systems. We’re committed to the project,” he says.