Media release 13 May 2004

Tune-up or quick fix?

The review of the Resource Management Act announced yesterday raises as many questions as answers, says Business NZ.

Chief Executive Simon Carlaw says the scope of the review is so big that it could not be achieved by the stated September timeframe if tackled properly.

"The review is intended to provide answers on how to handle projects of national importance and how to equitably allocate resources such as water," Mr Carlaw said.

"These are major, fundamental issues - as big as the decision on transferable fish quotas was, for example.

"Kiwis should have the opportunity to have their say on whether we have tradeable water rights - a major decision like this can't be done in a 'tune-up'.

"It's disturbing that a couple of 'roadshows' are cited as "consultation" when these are fundamental issues with wide-ranging implications for the future.

"It raises questions about how predetermined the answers might be from this review."

ENDS

© Scoop Media