22 Feb 2011

Commonwealth Secretary-General Kamalesh Sharma has written to the Prime Minister of New Zealand, John Key, in the wake of the earthquake which hit Christchurch on 21 February 2011.

"We have learned with distress and profound concern of the earthquake and aftershocks that have so severely blighted Christchurch yet again," he wrote.

"Our hearts and condolences go immediately to the bereaved. Our encouragement and solidarity go to the emergency services and so many others who are striving to assist those in need.

"The thoughts and prayers of fellow Commonwealth citizens around the world are with the people of New Zealand, and the residents of Christchurch especially, at this time of tragedy and challenge."

ENDS

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Scoop Business: Bathurst Gets Nod For DoC Access To Denniston Mine

Conservation Minister Nick Smith has approved access over conservation estate land for Bathurst Resources to develop an open cast coal mine on the Denniston Plateau, above Westport, to the dismay of environmental opponents.

The timing for Smith’s move avoids Bathurst having to resubmit applications for access agreements under the revised Crown Minerals Act, which comes into force tomorrow and would have required public consultation.

The announcement lands in the middle of delicate negotiations between the company, environmental groups and other interested parties that could pave the way to a broader agreement on the Escarpment proposal, whose resource consents are still subject to court appeals. More>>