31 July 2002 Media Statement

Young Nick’s Head decision not due on 4 August

Finance Minister Michael Cullen said today that the government would not be in any position to make an announcement on the future of Young Nick’s Head on 4 August.

Dr Cullen was responding to statements from the protest spokesman, Tutekawa Wyllie, that the hikoi planned to arrive in Parliament on 4 August because that was the deadline the government had set itself.

“In fact the extension of time agreed by the parties does not expire until 9 August. I would not want the hikoi arriving at Parliament expecting an answer on Monday when no decision will be made on that day.

“The Department of Conservation must first come to the government with a recommendation after negotiations with the potential purchaser. I would expect this process to be concluded either by or shortly after 9 August but no firm timetable has been set,” Dr Cullen said.

ENDS

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