Industry heartened by positive attitudes towards mining
Posted in: Media Releases: Wednesday, 24 March 2010
Industry heartened by positive attitudes towards mining
Minerals representative group Straterra is heartened by the positive feedback it is receiving from across the country on the Government’s proposal to unlock the country’s mineral wealth.
Spokesman Chris Baker says the group has been contacted by a large number of people who have welcomed the initiative wholeheartedly.
“The overwhelming majority of people who have been in touch with us are very encouraged by the fact they are now able to participate in a conversation for the national benefit.
“Many have called this a bold move by the Government and one that is long-overdue.
“Some have been opposed to any extension of mining, regardless of where it is carried out and we expected that.
“But all those who are enthusiastic about the initiative recognise that the proper development of the country’s – and ultimately their - mineral resources has the capacity to significantly improve the standard of living of all New Zealanders.”
Mr Baker acknowledges that the Government’s proposal has sparked an emotive debate.
“That was always going to be the case. New Zealand’s natural resources, worth hundreds of billions of dollars, are located under a range of areas from marginal scrubland to prized parklands.
“Almost every part of New Zealand is of special value to someone, and many places are special to all of us.
“This is exactly why the Government has opened the issue up for discussion. Despite some groups suggesting the Government has already made up its mind about which areas will be opened up to mining, I have seen no evidence of that.
“I am confident that whatever decisions the Government does make, it will strike a balance between economic opportunities and environmental responsibilities. This balance is important, and is something the majority of New Zealanders identify as being of the highest priority.
“Straterra welcomes that approach and encourages all New Zealanders to contribute to the discussion in a sensible and balanced way.”