BLUEGREENS NORTHERN

From Desk of Chair: Terry Dunleavy MBE, JP

Tel (09) 486 3859 - Fax (09) 486 2341 - Mobile 025 836688 - Email:terry@winezeal.co.nz

7 October 1999

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

APPEAL TO POLITICIANS TO REVERSE DECISION ON HAURAKI GULF MARINE PARK BILL

An last-minute appeal to MPs to save the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park Bill before Parliament is prorogued has been made by Terry Dunleavy, chairman of Bluegreens Northern.

"Aucklanders in particular, and New Zealanders in general will be appalled by the failure of our two main political parties, National and Labour to reach agreement on an environmental issue which has such wide and immediate implications," said Mr Dunleavy.

"While Labour might claim that there ius no reason to0 rush the bill, the hope always was that the Hauraki Gulf Marine Park would be in place prior to the commencement of the Louis Vuitton regatta to find the challenger to meet Team New Zealand for the America's Cup. This will be a time when world attention will focus not just on New Zealand, but on the gulf in particular. Here was a unique and unparalleled opportunity to tell the world about New Zealand's commitment to environmental values in a way which would add value to the products and services which rely for success in international markets on our clean, green image.

"Here was a time to put petty politicking aside, and to take a united stand on a concept which is so close to the hearts of so many of us. I urge Labour, in particular to think again before it's too late. The recriminations which will inevitably follow the deliberate shelving of this Bill will do nothing to enhance faith in politicians in general, and will invite electoral relaliation against those identified as being responsible," said Mr Dunleavy.

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