The Government is already travelling at light speed to distance itself from Environmental Risk Management Authority (ERMA), Green Party Co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons said today.
"We predicted just six days ago, when Labour ignored the wishes of the vast majority of New Zealanders and lifted the moratorium on GE release, that it would move quickly to distance itself from the unpopular decisions it's set up ERMA to make," said Ms Fitzsimons.
"Today in Parliament the Environment Minister showed how fast she can move in such a short time.
"She claimed that ERMA must take full responsibility for holding a secret session into Crop and Food's application to field trial GE onions. That ERMA is responsible for refusing to allow teleconference submissions and that ERMA alone made the decision to limit the hearing to Christchurch.
"Well, the Minister can run but she can't hide. This Government promised the most open, transparent and efficient regulatory system for GE control in the world and it is unacceptable for it now to disclaim responsibility for the actions of its watchdog."
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