27 April 2006

Environment officials to visit Far North

Ministry for the Environment officials will, at the invitation of Mayor Sharp, be visiting the Far North to discuss issues surrounding the area’s sewage system, Environment Minister David Benson-Pope said today.

Mr Benson-Pope last week requested and received a briefing on the sewage matter in the Far North from the Ministry for the Environment.

The Minister yesterday met with the Mayor of the Far North District Council Yvonne Sharp and local MPs Dover Samuels and John Carter to discuss these issues. Prior to this Ministry officials met late last week with the Chairman of the Northland Regional Council, Mark Farnsworth.

Mr Benson-Pope said while the council are making progress in rectifying the issues he won’t be intervening.

“This is obviously a major issue and I take it very seriously. I have met with the council and I am confident that they are managing the situation and are committed to improving their sewage systems and their operation.”

The Minister has asked officials to also meet with the Northland Regional Council during their visit.

ENDS

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