National MPs pressure Govt. over polluted lake
National MPs, Tony Ryall and Nick Smith are in Rotorua today to look into the pollution disaster affecting Lake Rotoiti.
There have been several reports of serious illness after people have come into contact with water in the algae-polluted
lake.
The Party's Bay of Plenty MP and Environment spokesman will join Environment BOP scientists as they carry out water
quality tests with new testing equipment, and will speak to local residents. The pair will also meet with the Rotorua
District Council and the Medical Officer of Health.
"The Government has ignored this calamity affecting one of New Zealand's major tourist lakes. In fact, the Minister for
the Environment has actively opposed the Regional Council's plan to control the inflow of nutrients into the lake. Our
visit is to continue pressure on the Government," says Mr Ryall.
"Yesterday's bungling response from acting Minister Pete Hodgson is being scoffed at in Rotorua. Government leadership
is needed now."