Residents Betrayed - An Eco City in Name Only

Helen Wiseman-Dare, Chairperson, West Aucklanders Against Aerial Spraying said today that the Waitakere City Council's decision not to pursue legal action under the Health Act to halt the aerial spraying was a betrayal of all those residents whose health and lives had been devasted during more than a year of aerial spraying.

It was particularly disappointing, she said, as this came at a time when the Council was celebrating 10 years as an "Eco-city". With some of the highest rates of asthma and respiratory problems in New Zealand, complicated by the very high levels of chemical sprays used in orchards, vineyards, on playing fields and city streets, the Council's refusal to act to halt the aerial spraying showed an ongoing lack of concern for the health of its residents.

She said it was obvious that the Council had bowed to political pressure with its decision not to oppose the spraying, not surprising as the Council had close ties with the Labour Party. She said the impact of its decision would be bound to be felt at the next election.

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