Lack of consultation on drilling plans outrageous

The Government must fully explain its plans to tender for off-shore drilling in the Pegasus Basin area and let the public have a say on those plans, Wellington Central MP and Labour’s Environment spokesperson, Grant Robertson, says.

“It is outrageous that the Government has got as far as calling for tenders, yet the people of Wellington and their representatives have not been consulted.

“The public must be given an opportunity to air their views before any further decisions are made,” Grant Robertson said.

“The Government is showing a disturbing pattern in its cavalier disregard for due process - as seen most recently in the Sky City deal.

“New Zealand has previously been regarded as one of the most transparent countries when it comes to government processes. That reputation is now at risk.”

“New Zealanders are becoming increasingly concerned about the risks associated with off-shore drilling.

“Labour has repeatedly stated that drilling should only take place if we have the capability to manage a disaster, and once robust safeguards are in place.

“The Government needs to listen to the concerns of New Zealanders, not ride roughshod over them.”

“I am calling on the Government to take a step back, and talk openly to New Zealanders about their plans, not hide away in the hope they can make the approval of drilling a fait accompli,” Grant Robertson said.