Scoop  Parliament

22 December 2004

Intervene Over Ruapehu Lake - Nz First

New Zealand First has asked the Ministers of Internal Affairs and Conservation to urgently consider adopting interventionist strategies on the Ruapehu crater lake to minimise the risk to surrounding areas.

“I am aware that the Ruapehu District Council has a major emergency management plan, that appropriate warning devices are in place, and that Government funding and advice has been available,” said Local Government and Environment spokesperson Jim Peters.

“Notwithstanding the plan, nothing is in place which would really alleviate the dramatic impact should the lake break through its highest bunding level.

“The Government needs to urgently rethink its historical unwillingness to face up to the impact of a potential disaster, and the likely consequences on the downstream and down-country communities,” said Mr Peters.

ENDS

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