The Green Party is once again calling on the Government to announce its support for a moratorium on deep sea mining, and to support a member’s bill going to select committee.

Te Pāti Māori Co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer’s member’s bill Prohibition on Seabed Mining Legislation Amendment Bill was drawn from the Members’ Ballot today.

All Green MPs were supporting MPs for the Bill.

“It’s great that MPs will get an opportunity to discuss how we could best protect the oceans around Aotearoa from destructive seabed mining,” says Eugenie Sage, Green spokesperson for oceans and fisheries.

“New Zealanders can be involved too but only if Labour supports the bill at its first reading so it can be sent to a select committee and public submissions invited on how the law should be changed.

“This week New Zealand has been taking part in negotiations at the International Seabed Authority for a mining code. If adopted, the code could allow overseas companies to enter our oceans and seek to mine from next July.

“More and more countries around the world are waking up to the dangers of deep sea mining and are calling for action to stop this emerging industry. The Labour Government could show real leadership and announce a ban and support this bill to first reading, and we hope beyond.

“We all rely on the ocean to keep the planet running. It is imperative we put ocean health before the speculative plans and profits of international mining corporations,” says Eugenie Sage.

Teanau Tuiono, the Green Party’s spokesperson for Pacific Peoples added:

“I have been working with a group of Pacific leaders and advocates who are committed to protect the ocean from mining by large corporations.

“Like others we are extremely concerned about the risks deep sea mining poses to livelihoods and food security in the Pacific.

“For decades Pacific peoples have been harmed by extractive, exploitative approaches - and deep sea mining is no different.

“I am delighted that MPs will have the chance to discuss this in Parliament. The Green Party looks forward to supporting this Bill when it comes to first reading,” says Teanau Tuiono.

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