Smith to discuss critical ECan report

Environment Minister Nick Smith will visit Timaru next week to discuss a damning report on Environment Canterbury (ECan), as he contemplates his decision on the regional council's future.

A spokesman for Dr Smith said he would meet representatives from the Timaru, Waimate and Mackenzie district councils, plus Rangitata MP Jo Goodhew and Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean. "Dr Smith is aware how important issues surrounding water management are to the region, and wants to clarify any issues surrounding the report."

Dr Smith's visit comes during a turbulent period for the regional council.

A review, led by former deputy Prime Minister Wyatt Creech, recommended sacking the council and replacing them with independent commissioners, citing the council's poor performance in water management.

The review also recommended establishing a separate Canterbury water authority.

Last week, ECan council submitted a compromise offer to Dr Smith and Local Government Minister Rodney Hide, which suggested the council continue to manage functions outside of water with a government-appointed "commissioner adviser" to help oversee water management.

Dr Smith said he had received the proposal, but had not made a decision on ECan's fate yet.

Previously, Dr Smith has acknowledged that sacking the council could require special legislation, as it had not reached the full trigger levels for intervention under the Local Government Act.

Timaru mayor Janie Annear said she was expecting free and frank discussion.

"Dr Smith has always been very upfront with us, and he has made it clear that ultimately it is the Government's decision if they go through with the recommendations from the Creech Report.

"He had already met with the mayors and I think he is wanting to cast his net a bit wider and hear some views from the actual councils."

The meeting will be held at the Timaru District Council's chambers on March 16.

- © Fairfax NZ News