Civil Fees Review - under the radar
At the 11th hour the Thorndon Society became aware of the Civil Fees Review, a review of fees for courts and tribunal
services in the civil jurisdiction.
The Society is most concerned about the proposed new fee structure for Environment Court appeals. It is proposed that
the initator of an appeal will now have to pay for mediations and hearings. It is claimed that the new fees are modest
but it is stated that the fee settings will set a path for future fee adjustments.
The Thorndon Society managed to get a quick submission lodged before the deadline on 2 November but what has surprised us is the general lack of knowledge about the review.
It has gone in under the radar. We are particularly concerned that it has serious implications for individuals and
community groups who may wish to appeal decisions on District Plan reviews, plan changes and resource consents.
On the RMA/planning side it looks like another measure of the current Government to fetter any opposition to proposed
development.
It is a matter that should be aired.
ENDS