4 November 2015

Land and Water Forum Unravelling

Fish and Game New Zealand’s resignation from the Land and Water Forum (LAWF) is an indictment of the National Government’s failure to take action on New Zealand’s declining fresh water quality, says Ikaroa-Rāwhiti MP and Labour’s Water spokesperson Meka Whaitiri.

“Sadly, Fish and Game’s decision to walk away is no surprise, given this Government’s history of cherry picking the Forum’s recommendations,” says Meka Whaitiri.

“The whole collaborative approach has been found wanting.

“This comes only a few weeks after the release of the landmark Environment Aotearoa 2015 report which revealed the damaging impact increasing dairy cattle numbers and nitrogen fertiliser use is having on the state of our water.

“In giving their reasons for pulling out of the Forum, Fish and Game have been scathing of the National Government.

“Environment Minister Nick Smith refuses to take any responsibility for the decline in water quality under his watch and National is willing to let things get worse.

“Labour is committed to making all New Zealand’s natural waters swimmable, fishable and safe for food gathering,” says Meka Whaitiri.

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