During my time in politics I have tried to provide numerous opportunities for young people.
In the last month my Youth MP, Andrew Chen, also completed the two-day Youth Parliament event in Wellington. I have also recently confirmed a new intern to be involved in education policy in Wellington. I was proud of how well Andrew spoke in the General Debate on education. I believe it is really important for all elected representatives to continue to provide more opportunities for young people to be involved in politics.
Waiheke ferry update
Cath Handley, Chair of the local board for Waiheke, Auckland Transport and myself held another meeting where we raised issues such as the lack of urgency and progress on integrated ticketing and the review. I am pleased that Auckland Transport (AT) has agreed to formally enter into discussions with Fullers to amend its access agreement to the wharves. With further disruptions occurring, islanders need this sorted urgently. People are fed up with being left on wharves and the lack of progress.
We have also asked the Mayor to ensure there is either an independent audit of Fullers, or it should be at the very least jointly commissioned with AT to ensure the terms of reference are appropriate and that stakeholders are engaged. People need to be confident there is going to be change with regards to services. We need greater urgency and assurances by the Minister and Mayor on the service issues and integrated ticketing.
Opposition to marine dumping in the Hauraki Gulf
I recently held several public meetings on issues of marine protection on Great Barrier Island and Waiheke Island. Islanders expressed major concerns about large-scale marine dumping and why there was a need to have this activity in the waters near Great Barrier. Iwi also raised issues of wai tapu and the seabed.
The Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) has approved consent to dump 250,000 cubic metres of marine sludge per annum for 35 years 25km east of Great Barrier Island. I am aware of the 50,000 cubic metres of sediment that has occurred in the past. However, the latest consent approved by the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of marine sludge is large scale and for a very long term into the future.
The alternatives to this marine dredging dumping could include landfill, clean fill and, as I understand it, cement mix. The issue of marina dredging will need to be properly considered in the future. I think there are some wider issues for local body politicians to consider around this. I realise that these issues are before a court.
However, I am concerned to ensure that local iwi and Great Barrier Island residents’ voices are heard and properly considered. These waters are the backyard for Barrier residents and they feel very strongly about these issues. The issues are wider for Auckland as, in my view, they represent a laziness and lack of care with our marine environment. I will continue to support Great Barrier Island in opposing this dumping.
Rate your council campaign
My colleague Denise Lee MP has set up a website for you to tell us your views on the Auckland Council on issues like consenting and transport. Denise is our Auckland Local Government spokesperson. Your views will help inform us as we develop Auckland Local Government and other policies towards the 2020 election.
I get a huge proportion of people contacting my office on Auckland Council issues. Every month I liaise with local body politicians and the Mayor’s office on issues. Please tell us your views by filling in the survey at www.rateyourcouncil.nz
If you require assistance please don’t hesitate to contact me or my office on 09 378 2088 or send me an email on mp.aucklandcentral@parliament.govt.nz. (NIKKI KAYE)
Authorised by Hon Nikki Kaye, MP for Auckland Central, 48c College Hill, Freemans Bay, www.nikkikaye.co.nz
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