March 30, 2010
MEDIA STATEMENT
Environment Canterbury will work constructively to ensure smooth transition following decision on Creech Report
The Chairman of Environment Canterbury, Alec Neill, has said that Environment Canterbury will work constructively with
commissioners following today’s government announcement that the council’s elected representatives will be replaced by
commissioners from the expected date of May 1, 2010.
The decision follows recommendations made in the Creech Report of February 19, 2010.
“The Environment Minister Nick Smith has in recent weeks has met with Canterbury territorial local authorities where
there was strong support in favour of installing commissioners and so it does not come as a surprise. However, we are
very disappointed at his decision as we were elected by the people of Canterbury and we believe very strongly in
democracy.
“We appreciate that before the Ministers made a decision they took the time to talk to us and to a number of our
important stakeholders.
“Councillors have been diligent in the face of uncertainty over recent weeks and we will all continue to work
constructively until the commissioners take over, to ensure a smooth transition. I know that our staff will also
continue to work professionally to ensure we achieve the best results for Canterbury.”
Cr Neill said the complexity surrounding water management in Canterbury should not be underestimated. “The removal of
the council will not alter the challenges presented by the many competing interests for water.
“The additional powers conferred on the commission through the proposed Environment Canterbury Temporary Commissioners
and Improved Water Management Bill will assist with the management of those challenges. Had Councillors had those powers
available to them then I am certain that the issues surrounding water could have been resolved more easily by elected
representatives.
“Everyone has acknowledged the importance of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy as an initiative that provides the
platform for effective and collaborative water management for this region. It was essential that the principles of the
strategy were confirmed in the proposed legislation.” He said that the strategy has been praised by a number of
Government ministers and the substantial investment in its development must not be wasted. Environment Canterbury has
played a pivotal role in promoting this strategy.
Cr Neill said significant progress has been made in a number of other important areas in recent times. This included
lifting consent processing timeframes so 90% are now carried out in the required timeframe.
“I am prepared to discuss with Commissioners how the organisation goes forward from here. Canterbury region and its
continued prosperity is my greatest concern.”
ENDS