Nick Smith National Environment Spokesperson

4 December 2003

United sells out on recreational interests at first hurdle

National's Environment spokesperson, Nick Smith, says United Future has blown its alliance with Outdoor Recreation New Zealand in deciding to vote for the Government's special legislation to advance Project Aqua on the Waitaki River.

"It is extraordinary that just a fortnight after signing a much-heralded coalition with Outdoor Recreation New Zealand, the United Party has sold out and voted for a bill to fast-track a scheme that will take 73% of the water out of the Lower Waitaki River, impacting hard on recreational fishing.

"Social Credit blew its political credibility in 1982 when it supported special legislation for the Clyde Dam. Now, United Future is following in its footsteps.

"National opposes this special Project Aqua legislation because it is piecemeal, and it provides for a special deal for a Government project.

"The Resource Management Act does need reform, but there has to be the same rules for Government companies as for other resource users," says Dr Smith.

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