March 11, 2024
Jones promises treaty safeguards in fast track bill
Regional Development Shane Jones says there will be ample opportunity for Māori and post-settlement iwi to have their say on major infrastructure and mining projects.
He says the Fast Track Approvals Bill he developed with RMA Reform Minister Chris Bishop will move the country from cancel economics to can-do economics.
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The statutory decision makers, including a panel of ministers, will actively seek out Maori views.
“So no one should leave believing that we have either derogated or marginalised the importance or the standing that post-settlement Maori entities, who expect the crown to honour and uphold the settlements that were entered into in a full and final manner, will not be addressed. They are addressed in this bill,” Mr Jones says.