EEZ Bill To Be Debated

MPs will debate legislation concerning the Exclusive Economic Zone and the Maui gas field when Parliament sits today.

After Question Time the Appropriation (2013/14 Confirmation and Validation) Bill will be given its first reading without debate. This will be followed by the first reading of the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) (Transitional Provisions) Amendment Bill.

The EEZ amendment bill allows existing operations within the EEZ to continue while their permits to operate under the new regulatory regime are processed. Environment Minister Nick Smith said the current Maui gas field drilling by Shell Todd Oil Services was currently applying for a marine consent, but its current licence may expire before the appeals process is completed.

This will be followed by the first reading of the Drug and Alcohol Testing of Community-based Offenders and Bailees Legislation Bill.

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