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Leader's LetterOctober 2004
Resource Management Act Needs ReviewA sure way of observing the human symptoms of boredom and disinterest is to mention the words Resource Management Act at a social gathering. Try it, and you’ll see the eyes glaze over, the stifled yawns, and the sudden recollection of a pressing need to visit the bathroom. However, the Resource Management Act (RMA) affects every one of us. From applying for a resource consent to build a garage on your property, to multi million dollar infrastructure developments that provide water or power or roads, the RMA is the pivotal legislation in operation. Passed in 1991, the RMA is concerned with the management of our natural and physical resources. That sounds simple, but in fact there’s probably no more complex piece of legislation in existence. One of the principles behind the formation of the RMA was devolution, and that meant that the administration of the Act fell largely to local government. With the exception of the New Zealand Coastal Policy Statement, there were no government national guidelines for regional and district plans and practice. Many of the problems that have since arisen in relation to the Act have been about perceived time delays in the consent process, costs and consultation requirements. Business interests have been concerned about differences in plans and procedures from council to council. In March this year, the Government announced a review of the RMA. This is undoubtedly due to the abandonment of Project Aqua by Meridian Energy, who cited lengthy and expensive consultation and lack of certainty of outcome as contributing factors in the decision to pull the plug on the project. That in turn has cast a shadow of insecurity over the ability of our future power generation needs to be met. New Zealand’s infrastructure is on the verge of collapse, but blaming the RMA is short-sighted. Successive governments have either sold off or failed to adequately invest in infrastructure over the last 20 years, and now we’re faced with the consequences. Inadequate roading, a crumbling rail network, old and decrepit power lines, problems with sewage disposal - you name it, it’s decaying all around you! Unless we want to slide into third world status, urgent action is required to address these major problems. New Zealand First strongly supports investment in infrastructure. It’s staggering that it’s been left to get to this point, and we’re committed to ensuring that this country is brought into line with other modern western democracies that have adequate planning processes in place to keep pace with growth. New Zealand First called for a review of the RMA in 2002 and is still calling for a proper review of it. Considered analysis and research is required to identify the problem areas and come to a solution that balances local and national needs. Compliance costs and issues surrounding consultation requirements also need to be addressed. The essence of good legislation is simplicity. It also needs to work in practice and bring maximum benefits. It’s to be hoped that these notions are kept in mind during the review process. Our view is that the reviewed Act must reflect protection of our resources but with the community having an ability to continue sustainable progress. Jim Peters MP
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