An ounce of prevention is better than a pound of cure

Press Release from Russel Norman, Geen Party Co-Leader. 5th Sept 2006

Today's warning from MAF that we are now facing the impact of accelerated climate change shows that it is vital that we take immediate action, says Russel Norman Green Party Co-Leader.

“The Government’s adverse weather events discussion paper is to be welcomed, but more effort needs to go into prevention of extreme weather events by playing our part to reduce greenhouse gas emissions,” says Dr. Norman, Green Party Economics Spokesperson.

"I agree with Agriculture Minister Jim Anderton that we need to plan for bigger, more intense and more frequent adverse weather events. But I have yet to see any real action from the Government to show that they are taking the threat of climate change seriously by actually reducing New Zealand’s emissions.

"Instead of leading by example, such as reducing the size of their gas guzzling ministerial fleet, the Government is embarking on a massive road building orgy while public transport funding is set to decline.

“And farmers need to consider whether the leadership shown by the President of Federated Farmers, Charlie Pederson, in attacking environmentalists is really in their best interests.

“Environmentalists and farmers are both coming to grips with the true meaning of climate change, in the form of more frequent intense weather events. We need to work together to reduce our emissions so that we meet our Kyoto Protocol commitments and play our part in keeping it on track. It is the best chance we have at the moment to reduce the impact of global warming.”

ENDS

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