The Government must look at how different land uses contribute to the contamination of drinking water supplies in its inquiry into the Havelock North drinking water debacle, the Green Party said today.
Disease-causing E. coli and campylobacter bacteria have been reported in water supplies in other parts of the country in recent years, including Patea, Hanmer Springs and Christchurch.
“We want the Government to take this opportunity to assess how land use around the country affects drinking water supplies,” said Green Party water spokesperson Catherine Delahunty.
“The type of land use in a community, for example agriculture, industrial or urban, affects the cleanliness of water in underground aquifers and bores so we need the inquiry to take into account how these activities pollute water across the country.
“At present, 15 percent of New Zealanders get their drinking water from bores and other unregistered supplies, so saying that we could just chlorinate every registered supply will not protect those dependent on bores.
“The Government has an opportunity to take strong action on drinking water and protect the health of communities with this inquiry – let’s hope they don’t squander it,” said Ms Delahunty.
Latest Environment Announcements
Story
$30m for school drinking water safety is a start but pollution keeps flowing
Story
“End of an era” as Government law change disestablishes Ministry for the Environment
Story
NZ democracy at risk of corporate corruption - Green Party backs urgent inquiry
Story
Action needed on widespread drinking water problems
Story
9,000 students faced unsafe drinking water at school last year
Story
Fast-track Decision Looms on Destructive Waitaha Hydro Scheme
Latest Water Announcements
Story
Greenpeace nitrates research proves need for strong freshwater regulation
Story
Three waters rebrand insufficient
Story
Freshwater crisis needs stronger government action
Story
Changes needed to three waters plans
Story
National reckless on rivers
