Ministers hit back at West Coasters planning rally against Government policies

Thursday, 7 November 2019

West Coasters rally at a 2018 protest against the Government's proposal to ban mining on conservation land.

Two ministers have hit back at claims the Government is ignoring the West Coast and putting pressure on the region's economy.

A group of Coasters expect thousands of people will join their rally opposing Government policies they believe are hurting the region's economy.

The group, called Naturally Together, says the region is facing significant pressure from a raft of new Government policies.

Among those concerning locals are the Government's Freshwater action plan, the potential ban on new mining on Conservation land, the Indigenous Freshwater Fish Bill, the rejection of windblown timber legislation, and an upcoming review of significant natural areas by district councils.

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Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage says her Government has invested more than $240m in the West Coast.

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* West Coast whitebaiters can't keep head in the sand but fishing won't be banned - MP**

Conservation Minister Eugenie Sage and West Coast-Tasman MP Damien O'Connor, who is also minister of agriculture and rural communities, say the group is being spurred on by misinformation from the Opposition.

Naturally Together spokesman Peter Haddock said some of the Government's policies were well-intended, but 'could lead to the collapse of many of our industries, the businesses operating in them, the loss of jobs, and the dwindling of communities'.

'If the jobs go, people will follow,' he said.

Sage said she was proud of the work the Government had done to support Coast communities, while protecting the climate and the the economy.

Communities on the West Coast fear a ban on new mining on DOC land could devastate their economy and future. (Video first published in July 2018)

'After years of neglect this Government has invested around $240 million into the region to support education, tourism, and infrastructure projects – from supporting Tai Poutini Polytechnic to improving broadband and cellphone reception.

'This $240m comes on top of the $120m which central Government provided to the West Coast when native forest logging on public land ended in 2000.'

All changes to New Zealand laws and regulations went through a robust public consultation, she said.

'I do not plan on attending the protest. I look forward to constructive engagement from businesses, young people, community organisations and councils with people who recognise the many opportunities the spectacular natural environment of the West Coast offers.'

O'Connor said he did not doubt the group's passion or commitment to the region but rejected the suggestion the Government was 'out to get Coasters'.

'There's been claims that the Government wants to drive West Coast people off the land. That might make a good soundbite, but it's not true.'

He expected the Government would make changes to its freshwater proposals after taking into account public submissions.

The Government would also allow everyone to have a say in a 'rigorous and extended public consultation' before any ban on mining on conservation land was imposed.