11 September 2013

RMA reforms need to stay on track

Federated Farmers today said it is critical the RMA reform stays on track.

“No one is saying there should not be any change. It is widely recognised that the Act needs amending to ensure that it remains fit for purpose,” says Bruce Wills, Federated Farmers President.

“Actually we have been disappointed that the changes the government is proposing have not gone far enough in some areas, such as compensation for example.

“The Minister, Amy Adams has had a clear and consistent message that the reforms are necessary to provide stronger environmental outcomes, greater confidence for businesses to grow and job creation, and greater certainty for communities to plan.

“Surely everyone can sign up to changes that will require local authorities to better engage with, and be more accountable to, their communities. This along with a number of other changes will lead to better and more enduring environmental outcomes.

“It is important to remember that the RMA is not just about environmental protection but is also New Zealand’s planning legislation.

“There were over 13,000 submissions made on the discussion document and a number of changes have been made to the latest proposal as a result of those submissions.

“We believe that there is actually widespread support for the changes which are aimed at simplifying the planning framework, requiring plans to be more proactive, and further streamlining RMA costs and processes so they are proportionate to the activity. The reforms need to stay on track,” Mr Wills concluded.

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