Opposition parties continued to express dismay and horror at legislation extending the terms of appointed commissioners to Environment Canterbury.
The second reading of the Environment Canterbury (Temporary Commissioners and Improved Water Management) Amendment Bill was completed today by 63 to 56 with National, Maori Party, ACT and United Future supporting.
Last night in Parliament Local Government Minister Chris Tremain outlined why the Government had stepped in – Environment Canterbury was dysfunctional and could not come up with a water management plan – and why the appointment of commissioners would be extended – the work was not yet completed.
Opposition parties said the lack of elections again for Canterbury was a fundamental suspension of democracy in the region.
Many voiced suspicions that the Government were extending the appointments in order to ensure that irrigation friendly water management plans were put in place.
Labour MP Annette King outlined many of the concerns.
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MPs began the committee stage debate on the Corrections Amendment Bill and reported it with amendment before the House rose at 10pm.
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