Media Release
10 February 2004

Vote Of Thanks For Diesel Spill Workers

A vote of thanks is owed to all those involved in the clean up operations at Milford Sound says New Zealand First’s conservation spokesman, Edwin Perry.

“Without the prompt reactions and hard work of Environment Southland, DoC staff, tourism company workers and local residents, all of whom worked night and day on clean up operations, we could be looking at an ecological disaster.

“The practical experience gained from the clean-up could also be invaluable if similar circumstances arose in future,” said Mr Perry.

“However this spill, whether it was deliberate sabotage or an accident, demonstrates how easily the mischievous or clumsy can cause havoc.

“The tourism companies in Milford Sound obviously need to beef up their security measures and the Conservation Minister should immediately review whatever ways and means he has at his disposal to prevent future disasters,” said Mr Perry.

ENDS

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