Leading Conservation Organisations Write In Support Of Sandra Lee

New Zealand's leading conservation and environmental organisations today expressed their confidence in Conservation Minister, Sandra Lee and support for her decision on GRD Macraes' proposed Reefton goldmine.

The Royal Forest and Bird Protection Society, ECO (Environment and Conservation Organisations of New Zealand), Federated Mountain Clubs, Buller Conservation Group and Greenpeace sent a joint letter to the Prime Minister, Helen Clark.

"Sandra Lee's decision displayed intelligent analysis of the issues, a deep understanding of conservation values, and a real concern for the health of the environment and future generations," the letter said.

"It was the only correct decision possible under the Crown Minerals Act in relation to land managed for conservation."

The groups said they would oppose any efforts by GRD Macraes to have a "revised" application approved. "Hard rock gold mining is inappropriate in Victoria Conservation Park," they said.

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