Andrew Williams MP
Spokesperson for Local Government and Environment

24 May 2012

Auckland Council Creates Pollution Risk - NZ First

New Zealand First has raised serious concerns about the Auckland Council cancelling funding for hazardous material collection days to save $3.5 million over 10 years.

Local Government and Environment spokesperson Andrew Williams says the decision rings alarm bells for the potential effects on the environment in the region.

“The hazardous material collection days have been a means for Aucklanders to go to collection points and drop off hazardous materials, chemicals, batteries and other materials so they will be properly disposed of.

“Withdrawing this public service will result in more hazardous waste materials being put out with domestic and business rubbish, and ultimately polluting landfill sites.

“Worse still, toxic waste could be tipped down drains to end up in the Waitemata Harbour.”

Mr Williams says there has also been a public outcry in recent months that Auckland Transport, an Auckland Council controlled organisation, has reverted to chemical spraying of roads and public areas, including near schools.

“This is in direct contravention of former local government policy of using non-toxic methods to control weeds.”

“These situations raise loud alarm bells for the environment in Auckland,” says Mr Williams.

ENDS

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