Labour and Nats squabbling over crumbs of recreation
UnitedFuture leader Peter Dunne is yet to be convinced that there will be any change in the management of the Department of Conservation despite the leak of National’s conservation policy today
“It seems as though both major parties are squabbling over a few crumbs amounting to a false commitment to recreation,” said Mr Dunne.
UnitedFuture is particularly concerned at the attitude of DoC towards recreational users such as large game hunters and fishers. As a consequence, I want to ensure that the Department is required to consult with all relevant stakeholder groups in a fair, balanced and transparent way.
“Those who consistently use our backcountry to hunt, tramp and climb in are the most important recreational and conservation stakeholders we have; these are the people whose love for the outdoors deserves to be better reflected in Government policy.”
“For too long hunters and other backcountry users have been marginalized and treated with disdain, as if they are unwanted invaders of our wilderness areas.”
“UnitedFuture is committed to addressing the current imbalance between conservation and recreation by pursuing practical policies that will have a positive impact on both.”
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