Freshwater Iwi Leaders Group welcomes introduction of Resource Legislation Amendment Bill

The Freshwater Iwi Leaders Group (ILG) today welcomes the introduction of the Resource Legislation Amendment Bill.

“The introduction of the Bill is a positive first step in advancing our objectives of better environmental outcomes and improving Māori participation in resource management processes,” said Freshwater ILG spokesperson, Rahui Papa.

The Freshwater ILG has been engaged with the Crown since 2009 on the issue of freshwater reforms and these RMA amendments have an important relationship with that wider reform process. The ILG has also worked closely with the Māori Party over the last two years to progress the issue of iwi and hapū rights and interests in this area. Throughout these discussions, the ILG has made it clear that the role of iwi and hapū as kaitiaki and also as responsible developers of our land, waters and other resources is of the utmost importance.

“While the current proposals in the Bill provide some further scope to advance our objectives, the ILG is committed to continuing to work with the Crown to help develop an improved baseline model for iwi participation in these processes, which we think will benefit iwi and hapū, local authorities, consent holders and, ultimately, all New Zealanders.”

“We encourage whānau, hapū and iwi to have their say during the select committee process. The ILG intends to have on-going discussions with both the Crown and the Māori Party throughout the passage of the Bill in order progress further amendments that will improve the mechanisms through which the rights, interests and responsibilities of iwi and hapū can be appropriately recognised and provided for under the RMA ensuring that our natural environment is flourishing for future generations to come.”

ENDS.

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