Don Brash MP

National Party Leader

25 July 2005

Fixing the RMA is a top legislative priority

National Party Leader Don Brash says reform of the Resource Management Act is a top legislative priority for the next National Government.

"Fixing the Resource Management Act is critical to addressing New Zealand's roading and electricity infrastructure crisis and in attracting investment in industries like forestry and manufacturing.

"Labour's mismanagement of our resource management laws is adversely affecting traffic congestion, power prices, housing costs, key sporting events, jobs and exports.

"I am announcing this policy at the Western Springs Speedway because the fiasco here illustrates how Labour's failing resource management policies are impacting on ordinary New Zealanders.

"Mainstream New Zealanders are sick and tired of Labour backing minority groups at the public's expense.

"The fact that the Western Springs Speedway could face closure is just one of hundreds of examples where the Resource Management Act is going wrong.

"National has a package of 22 specific reforms that will reduce the delays, uncertainty and costs caused by the Act," says Dr Brash.

Key reforms in National's changes include:

* Scrapping legal aid for objectors.
* Repealing references to the Treaty of Waitangi and 33 other related
provisions.
* Limiting objectors to people directly affected.
* Introducing a policy of a late consent is a free consent.
* Making greater use of national standards.
* Simplifying the process for changing district and regional plans.

ENDS

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