News release

Thursday 19 July 2001

Mayoral Forum Supports Clean Air Campaign

The Auckland Regional Council campaign to clean-up Auckland air quality is building momentum says Auckland Mayoral Forum chair Chris Fletcher.

“The cleanliness of Auckland’s air is an important environmental and quality of life issue. Without concerted action to clean it up Auckland will suffer the fate of other large cities that are plagued with smog and poor health,” said Mrs Fletcher.

The Auckland Mayoral Fourm has been briefed on the campaign by Auckland Regional Council chairman Phil Warren who says the campaign has had an overwhelming positive public response.

Mr Warren also advised the forum that the issue has reached the highest political level with the Prime Minister, Rt Hon Helen Clark and Deputy Hon. Jim Anderton taking personal interest.

Mrs Fletcher says the Mayoral Forum has given its full support to the ARC campaign that began with the 0800 SMOKEY hotline. As the authority with direct responsibility for air quality the forum resolved to support the ARC campaign and in particular the reduction of sulphur in diesel.

"This should send another clear message to Mobil and Central Government that Auckland's mayors and Aucklanders want action sooner rather than later."

Ends.

For more information:
Chris Fletcher, Chair Auckland Mayoral Forum
Tel. 307 7581

© Scoop Media