MEDIA RELEASE
Tuesday, 20 September 2011

Consent breaches to be publically discussed

Horizons Regional Council chairman Bruce Gordon says he is supportive of the high level of public interest in the recent consent breaches of Palmerston North City Council but is asking the public to wait until the full picture of the breaches is presented.

“This is a matter of considerable public interest and, because of that, it is essential that all the facts are first gathered and then conveyed,” says Mr Gordon.

“Horizons staff last week brought Palmerston North City Council consent breaches to the attention of our council. I have requested further information regarding the nature of those breaches and the impact they are having on the river.”

Horizons has also asked for an explanation from Palmerston North City Council as to their understanding of the breaches and what steps are being taken to remedy this.

“It is our philosophy to work with consent holders to achieve the best outcomes. Just as farmers struggling to comply work closely with our rural advisors, councils are given the opportunity to work with us to ensure compliance is achieved,” explains Mr Gordon.

“That said we are not afraid to take legal action when necessary. We have prosecuted 23 consent holders in the past five years including district councils.”

Further information from Horizons and PNCC will be presented to council in October at a public meeting. Horizons will then determine what action needs to be taken.

“The meeting on the 11th of October will be open to the public and those interested in seeing the matter resolved for the benefit of our river and community are most welcome to attend,” says Mr Gordon.

The meeting will be held at Horizons offices on Victoria Avenue, Palmerston North at 10am.

ENDS

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