Media Release
7th August, 2012

EEZ changes welcome – Environment Commissioner


Changes to exclusive economic zone legislation announced by Environment Minister Amy Adams show the Government is listening to environmental concerns says the Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment Dr Jan Wright.

The legislation aims to protect New Zealand’s exclusive economic zone by regulating economic activity such as deep sea drilling and seabed mining.

Dr Wright says she welcomes the change to the legislation’s statement of purpose.

“The direction provided by the original statement of purpose was of concern to several organisations and people including me and it’s good to know that these concerns have been heard by the Minister.

“This is important legislation and the Government is to be congratulated on bringing it into existence and doing so by way of a wider conversation.

“It is vital to New Zealand’s environmental and economic future that we get this legislation right.”

The Bill is currently before Parliament.

ENDS

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