March 07, 2024
Fast track mining process coming
Resources Minister Shane Jones says the new resource management law will not override the ability of Māori to have a say on development.
Mr Jones will today reveal new fast-track processes for environmental approvals.
Previous attempts to change the law have foundered on concerns over their impact on Māori rights and interests.
Mr Jones says existing Treaty of Waitangi Settlements will be respected.
“There will continue to be opportunities for not only those post-settlement entities but for tangata whenua to have a say and to reflect their priorities when a development takes place. I can’t predict which developments will be first to be kicked off but there are a whole variety of large projects, not least of which is roads and infrastructure and arguable there is going to be a lot of debate once we get to the mining projects,” he says.
Mr Jones says the extractive sector is a legitimate part of the New Zealand economy that can generate jobs and wealth.