EEZ legislation fails to protect marine environment

The government's legislation to administer New Zealand's exclusive economic zone fails to meet the expectations of New Zealanders that the law will protect and preserve our marine environment, Labour’s Environment spokesperson Grant Robertson and Labour Energy spokesperson Moana Mackey say.

The legislation has been reported back from the Local Government and Environment Select Committee with some changes, but is largely the same as when it was introduced.

"Labour was the only party to vote against this Bill on its introduction,” Grant Robertson said.

“We did so because we felt it not only fails to provide a robust regime to protect our marine environment, but the proposed conditions are weaker than and inconsistent with the Resource Management Act, and fail to meet our international obligations.

“Sadly the government has not dealt with these issues, hence we remain opposed to the Bill,” Grant Robertson said.

Moana Mackey said New Zealand does need legislation to regulate and manage our exclusive economic zone, but this legislation falls short.

“Submitter after submitter came to the Select Committee to point this out. The government has not listened to their concerns.”

She said Labour would be proposing a number of amendments as the Bill progresses to try to create robust, consistent legislation.

"Our international obligations only allow for exploitation of resources on the basis of protecting and preserving the marine environment.  This Bill is based on a 'balance' of considerations.

“That is too weak.  It also uses different, weaker language than the RMA which governs activities out to the 12 miles. This will create uncertainty and inconsistency for local authorities, industry and the community,” Moana Mackey said.

"Labour believes that other parts of the legislation - such as rights of appeal, recognition of iwi interests, including Moriori and the penalties regime - must be strengthened,” said Grant Robertson said.

"Given the government's stated desire to expand oil and gas exploration this legislation is more important than ever.

“New Zealanders are rightly concerned that we have the regime in place that will protect our environment.  This legislation fails to provide that regime,” the pair said.