Economic consultant ignores complexity of infrastructure

Economic consultant ignores complexity of infrastructure development

IrrigationNZ CEO Andrew Curtis says economic consultant Peter Fraser’s view that the Wairarapa Water Use Project and other water storage developments are unviable, doesn’t stack up with the significant amount of research already done on these projects.

“Peter Fraser thinks developing water storage and irrigation infrastructure in the regions is a waste of money. But evidence – nationally and internationally – is that this is an extremely successful way of revitalising regional economies.

“Undoubtedly these are costly and complex developments which take decades to scope out and build. But the benefits are unanimously recognised, and as a result, the Government has provided a dedicated fund for supporting irrigation developments. The need for this was mandated through the Land and Water Forum where all stakeholders agreed to back Irrigation Acceleration Fund (IAF) grants as the most effective way to investigate water solutions.

“Attacking the Irrigation Acceleration Fund, as Mr Fraser has done, for kick-starting irrigation infrastructure is short-sighted. There is already more than 50,000 new hectares of irrigated land available in New Zealand because of the Irrigation Acceleration Fund and its predecessor, with tens of thousands more hectares under investigation.

“This is about taking a long term view to ensure the best use of our water resources, while also maximising the advantages for each regional community.

“Benefits are clear in places like Canterbury where irrigation schemes such as Central Plains, Valetta and Ashburton Lyndhurst, with support from the Government’s Irrigation Acceleration Fund, have successfully delivered modern, piped irrigation schemes which bring multiple benefits to the area.

“What Mr Fraser fails to realise is that water storage and irrigation infrastructure are not only about farming.

“These developments respond to a range of needs. They augment rivers and top up aquifers, they tackle the environmental legacies of farming, industry and population growth by boosting water supply and ensuring consistent river flows. In many areas water storage provides recreational opportunities like new kayaking, boating and fishing destinations. Finally, they contribute to socio-economic growth regionally. Around the globe, irrigation development and water storage projects, are employed by governments to create jobs and stimulate business growth. This Government is currently looking at opportunities for Northland and Bay of Plenty because of the potential to address socio-economic disparity in these areas.

“Anyone who therefore thinks that the economic model for this infrastructure will see farmers solely footing the bill just doesn’t understand the nature of these projects.

“The costs involved are well outside the capacity of rural communities and with widespread benefits, there is a very strong argument for the Government to be involved as they advance the well-being of all New Zealanders.”

ENDS

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