Press release - February 27, 2014
Responding to news today that the Government will not allow New Zealanders the chance to have a say about exploratory oil drilling, by classifying it as a ‘non-notified discretionary activity’, Steve Abel, Greenpeace’s energy campaigner, said:
“This is a cowardly move from a Government doing the bidding of foreign oil companies.
“This announcement is a slap in the face for anyone who wants their kids to swim in clean seas, for whom fishing is a way of life, and who believes in our right to have a say. It strips away the chance for New Zealanders to protest about the most dangerous stage of oil drilling.
“The Government are little more than lackeys for the oil industry. A government who wanted to see our economy boosted by billions of dollars and tens of thousands of jobs would turn their backs on this outdated industry and back our own, cutting-edge clean energy industry instead.”
ENDS
Steve Abel, energy campaigner, Greenpeace: 021 927 301
Niall Bennett, head of communications, Greenpeace: 0221 831 740