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There will be an independent inquiry into Rena disaster
Media release: There will be an independent inquiry into Rena disaster
The Environmental Defence Society has confirmed that contrary to claims by the Green Party, the government has committed itself to an independent inquiry into the Rena disaster.
"We noted Gareth Hughes' reported comments in which he claimed "the government still hasn't committed to an independent inquiry," said EDS Chairman Gary Taylor.
"But in a letter to EDS dated 17 October 2011, the Prime Minister said "there will be some form of independent inquiry into the aftermath of the Rena grounding."
"We take that as confirmation from Government that at least the inquiry will be independent - that is, it will be conducted by a body other than the responsible entities.
"Where we agree with Mr Hughes is that a Royal Commission is the most independent way of establishing an inquiry and is strongly preferred given the magnitude of the disaster.
"The inquiry should have terms of reference focused on the initial and longer-term response. Its purpose should be to ensure that we are as ready as possible for any similar occurrence in the future that might impact on New Zealand's coastal environment.
"We need to remember that the amount of oil spilled from the Rena was very small compared with what could occur from either an oil well rupture or a super-tanker breach. So it is timely to consider just what level of response capacity we need to have immediately on hand and what avoidance measures might reasonably be put in place.
"Given the long-term nature of the on-going clean-up operation, it is appropriate to start establishing the Inquiry now," Mr Taylor concluded.
ENDS
Environmental Defence Society
EDS speaks for the environment. It has influence.
Since 1971, EDS has been driving environmental protection in Aotearoa New Zealand
through law and policy change. That's why it's one of this country's most influential non-
profit organisations when it comes to achieving better environmental outcomes.
EDS has expertise in key disciplines including law, planning, landscape and science. It
operates as a policy think-tank, a litigation advocate, and a collaborator – bringing together
the private and public sectors for constructive engagement.
EDS runs conferences and seminars on topical issues, including an annual Environmental
Summit and the Climate Change and Business Conference.
EDS is a registered charity and donations to it are tax-deductible.
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