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Crunch Time on the Future of Canterbury Water

Crunch Time for Decisions on the Future of Canterbury Water

A group of Canterbury’s leading water experts came together recently to progress a long-term workable solution to this critical issue for the region.

The Steering Group for the Canterbury Water Management Strategy (CWMS) appointed by the Canterbury Mayoral Forum (representing the Canterbury Councils) met to agree a series of possible approaches to water management, which will be taken to the public for consultation over the coming months.

Steering Committee Chair, Bede O’Malley (also Mayor of Ashburton District) says “the time has come when we have to make some hard decisions and commit to a strategy for the future of our region’s water. Coming up with a solution that is in the best interests of the region is no easy task but the reality is we have to, and soon.

“Water is a growing issue and one of the new Government’s priorities.  It’s a complex issue and simplistic solutions just won’t do, and that’s why the CWMS has invested considerable time in scientific research and stakeholder and public consultation.”

The Steering Group has confirmed plans to produce the first draft of the water management strategy in June 2009.  Between now and then some specific research will be undertaken but the main activity will be stakeholder and public consultation and preparation of the detailed strategy

Steering Committee Chair, Bede O’Malley says, “It’s critical to the long-term success of the strategy that we consult extensively with the wider Canterbury community and all its key stakeholders to ensure we have provided everyone with the opportunity to have their say.”

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Stakeholder meetings will be held in Twizel, Timaru, Ashburton, Darfield, Christchurch and Culverden from the middle of March where a number of possible approaches will be presented for consideration and input. Following these meetings a document will be produced that will form the basis of wider public consultation. In each area two meetings will be held on consecutive weeks to ensure that people have sufficient time to consider the options, discuss issues and provide informed feedback.

“Water is a highly emotive subject for many people, particularly here in Canterbury. Most people have an opinion or a view on the subject. Really you could go as far as to say water defines Canterbury and the people who choose to live here.

“We encourage all Cantabrians to engage in the consultation process. This will be the final and most vital opportunity for those with an interest in the future of water for whatever reason to have their say.”

To find out more information about the Canterbury Water Management Strategy and  the stakeholder meetings, go to www.canterburywater.org.nz

 

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