Simon Power National Party Conservation Spokesman

12 January 2005

Is DoC up to it?

National's Conservation spokesman Simon Power says the Department of Conservation should focus on protecting our endangered flora and fauna and leave world heritage sites up to the experts.

"New Zealanders will be rightly proud that six sites around the country are considered to be of 'global significance' but they need to be assured that DoC is capable of managing them."

In the past year, DoC failed to meet 21 out of its 35 natural heritage targets and four out of its five historic and cultural heritage targets.

"The Minister of Conservation should be more concerned with the protection of the 77% of endangered species that the department isn't working to protect," says Mr Power.

"DOC should get its own house in order before meddling with world heritage sites."

ENDS

© Scoop Media