Moana
MACKEY
Energy and Climate Change Spokesperson
27 November 2012 MEDIA STATEMENT
Fracking report sends clear signal to Government
The concerns that many New Zealanders have about fracking are echoed in today’s interim report from the Parliamentary
Commissioner for the Environment, something the Government must take on board, Labour's Energy Spokesperson Moana Mackey
says.
“The Commissioner has made a number of initial recommendations and observations that the Government needs to take very
seriously.
“She also raises some important issues regarding the role of Government which will form the basis of the second phase of
her investigation.
"There is no doubt that the oversight and regulation of fracking is complex and it’s up to the Government to ensure all
parties are aware of their responsibilities.
"The question of whether the level of regulation is too light-handed is crucial. Public confidence in any regulatory
regime is essential given the level of public concern about the risks associated with this practice.
“There is also the question of whether existing regulations are being adequately policed and enforced. We look forward
to seeing the Commissioner’s recommendations in this area
"Labour is also concerned about the capacity within local and regional councils to process consent applications for
fracking given the lack of experience and technical expertise available to them.
“No council should be forced into making decisions on whether fracking goes ahead and under what conditions unless it
can be confident it has the evidence to do so.
"The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment is to be congratulated for taking the public concern regarding
fracking seriously when the Government failed to do so.
“Let’s hope the assurances from the Minister of Energy, Phil Heatley, that the Government will support any
recommendations that the PCE puts forward, don’t turn into hollow promises,” Moana Mackey said.
ENDS