Jacinda Ardern
Labour Candidate for Auckland Central

23 March 2010 Media Statement

Hands off Great Barrier Island and Coromandel

Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel are for all New Zealanders not just a few mining companies, Labour Auckland Central candidate Jacinda Ardern says.

“The Government's announcement on mining represents a double blow for Auckland residents. Under this proposal, parts of Great Barrier Island will be open for mining.

“There is clearly an existing agenda from mining companies at play, which represents a very real threat to the preservation of Great Barrier's beautiful environment and reputation.

“The Coromandel is also a major target for the Government including areas many Aucklanders currently spend their holidays and tourists use as a travel destination.

“It’s not enough for a National MP to say they don't personally agree with proposals in their area alone. They either support mining of currently protected areas or they don't. Sadly National MPs won't be tested on their position as the Government can make changes to Schedule 4 without it going before Parliament."

“I am completely opposed to opening up our National Parks and areas like Great Barrier Island and the Coromandel to mining. Destroying some of our most treasured places, the places we should proudly be passing on to future generations, is not my idea of economic development.

“I plan to host a meeting with Labours conservation spokesperson David Parker on this issue in central Auckland on the 15th of April alongside other community groups in the area, which I would encourage people to come along to,” Jacinda Ardern said

ENDS

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