May 09, 2024
Iwi flagged on changes to Crown Minerals Act
Māori Development Minister Tama Potaka says the Government and iwi share the same concerns about how to achieve growth while protecting the environment.
On Tuesday Mr Potaka and Associate Energy Minister Shane Jones held an online briefing for iwi on proposed changes to the Crown Minerals Act aimed at restarting gas production.
He says the country is facing an impending energy crisis, as the run down in gas supplies will affect hospitals, milk factories and other industries.
The Fast Track Approval Bill, which drew a protest at Parliament yesterday from iwi including Ngati Toa Rangatira, Te Atiawa and Ngati Raukawa, is part of the solution.
“We don’t believe the consenting regime is working efficiently or effectively. Hence we’ve suggested some ideas which are out for engagement with the submissions and select committee process to get the economy back on track. With that we believe our communities including Maori communities will be better off economically but also socially,.” Mr Potaka says.
He says it’s hard to see tangihanga, hui and other things take place when you’re worried about whether or not the lights turn on.