ACT confirm they would sell NZ's crown jewel
ACT confirm they would sell New Zealand's crown jewel – our coastal space
ACT has again demonstrated just how out of touch they are with ordinary New Zealanders by confirming they would
privatise our pristine marine space.
During the third reading of the Aquaculture Reform Bill, ACT MP Gerrard Eckhoff called for marine farmers to be granted
leases in perpetuity that would never have to renewed.
"It is no wonder that ACT is so unpopular with the community when they now reveal they are prepared to give away our
invaluable marine space," said Fisheries Minister David Benson-Pope.
"The Government has consistently stated that it will not privatise public space. The reason for our cautious approach
with the aquaculture moratorium and extensive negotiation of marine farming management practices was to ensure good
outcomes for the environment, communities, as well as marine farmers and the economy.
"The Government and indeed overwhelming majority of Parliament confirmed today that it could not agree with ACT's line
that aquaculture should be unregulated and uncontrolled. That would seem to even put ACT in conflict with those wishing
to further develop our exciting aquaculture industry.
"Instead of advocating that New Zealand marine farmers should go to Australia and set up business, Mr Eckhoff could
provide us all with the best Christmas present of all by heading there permanently himself."