The Government’s plan for development in Northland is exploitative, Labour’s Associate Spokesperson on Regional
Development Meka Whaitiri says.
“All Economic Development Minister Steven Joyce can offer on Waitangi Day is more of the same; a tired parade of
promises around mining and drilling.
“This Minister is out of touch with the needs of Northland. It is downright cheeky of him to suggest that there should
not be black and white answers to resource opportunities.
“His big plan sees the Ministry of the Environment and Department of Conservation side-lined into submission. If this is
Steven Joyce’s only solution to job creation then Northland is in serious trouble.
“ I promise that Labour will listen. We will engage and work alongside local iwi to unlock the potential of Northland
and our country’s biggest asset – its young people.
“Northland will have a comprehensive regional development plan that will be tailored to its needs. We will address
inequality, create jobs and and ensure every kid gets the education they deserve.”
ENDS