Hon
David Benson-Pope - 17/10/2006 - Future of fireworks
up to the public - The severity of any new rules
toughening up on the sale of fireworks, including
a possible ban, will depend on the outcome of
this year’s Guy Fawkes, Environment Minister David
Benson-Pope said today.
“If there's no improvement in
safety this year, the government will consider
bringing in new regulations covering the sale
of fireworks to the public in 2007,” David Benson-Pope
said.
“The extent of irresponsible
behaviour and damage seen this year will certainly
influence our considerations.
“Throughout the year, the government
has been examining possible regulations, following
the damage from the misuse of fireworks and the
extra stress placed on the Police and Fire Service
last year.
“I advocate raising the current
legal age for buying fireworks. Fireworks are
more powerful today than when the age limit of
fourteen was set and I will be raising this issue
with my colleagues.
“I'm also looking at the logistics
of shortening the period of sale. Much of the
misuse of fireworks takes place prior to Guy Fawkes
night itself.
“I understand the Fire Service
and Police and RSPCA are fed up with fireworks
related emergencies involving fire, property damage
and cruelty to animals. I share that concern.
“For 2006, I have requested
that a co-ordinated safety campaign be run across
New Zealand to promote the safe use of fireworks,”
said Mr Benson-Pope.
“Fireworks are not to be used
to scare people or animals or to damage property
they are a privilege to have for visual displays
only. Police won’t be tolerating ‘hoon’ behaviour.
“Guy Fawkes is traditionally
a family day. Thousands of families are responsible
with fireworks, and want to keep enjoying this
in their neighbourhoods. I plan to consult widely
with the public about any future changes to the
sale of fireworks,” Mr Benson-Pope said.
Hon David Parker - 16/10/2006
- Transport initiatives won't see vehicle prices
soar - Climate Change Minister David Parker says
proposals just announced by the government to
modernise the cars on New Zealand's roads will
not see vehicle prices soar, as was reported today.
The government is investigating
ways to improve the fuel economy of vehicles,
to reduce the greenhouse gases that contribute
to climate change, and to reduce the harmful effects
of vehicle emissions.
To do this, the government has
asked the Ministry of Transport to work with the
motor industry on a regulated sales-weighted fuel
economy standard for new and second-hand vehicles.
The Ministry is also considering an age restriction
on used imports.
David Parker said it was important
progress was made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
in the transport sector.
"The effect on prices is
something we'll look at during the consultation
period, but we do not expect any prices rises
to be dramatic. In addition, improved fuel economy
will mean consumers benefit from cheaper fuel
bills."
