8 July 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Springhill prison decision a blow for NIMBY National

Progressive MP and former Corrections Minister Matt Robson welcomes the Environment Court decision on the Springhill prison near Meremere.

“The judge confirms the soundness of the consultation process,” says Matt Robson, who authorized the consultations and started planning work for the new regional prison.

“And it is a significant slap for Don Brash. He has declared himself a supporter of new prisons, but his NIMBY caucus is undermining him.

“Local National MP Paul Hutchison has led the not-in-my-backyard brigade opposing the Springhill site. And fellow NIMBY current and past MPs Shane Ardern, Richard Worth, Warren Lyd, Doug Kidd and John Luxton are behind Dr Hutchison.

For National to have credibility, it needs to say where it will build new prisons rather than oppose every prison site the Labour-Progressive government proposes.

The Environment Court found the prison is greatly needed, finding a location is of national importance and there can be no basis for cancelling it. The judge said the relationship between Maori and their culture and traditions had been properly recognised and provided for by the minister.

ENDS

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