Visionless Govt Dismissed Rule of Law Again

Waikato-Tainui Chair Tukoroirangi Morgan has launched a scathing attack on the decision to delay Plan Change one provisions until 2032 saying it puts political interests ahead of the health of the Waikato and Waipaa Rivers and undermines Treaty settlement commitments.

Earlier this year the Environment Court ruled PC1 would remain a central part of the local government mechanisms to ensure the ongoing health and safety of the Waikato and Waipaa rivers.

“After 14 years of work by iwi, farmers and growers, councils, industry, environmental and community groups, it is extraordinary that the Government would simply press pause now, when the process has reached its conclusion,” said Tuku.

“We know this is election year, but this is bad news for people and organisations who follow the rule of law and in the next breath have the government step in to override judicial directions at the behest of their political donors.”

“Our catchments will now be subject to another six years of degradation which is completely and utterly unacceptable.”

PC1 levels the playing field for everyone who has a vested interest in the health and wellbeing of our environment and that must surely be a positive thing for everyone,” said Tuku Morgan.