Open letter to the Bills, Petitions and Papers Select Committee- Re: ‘Keep Our Water Free’ – Ministerial response to Committee Recommendations

Kia Orana madam chair, I write on behalf of the 3407 Cook Islanders who signed the 'Keep Our Water Free' petition.

In our submission, we made a clear and principled request, seeking that Parliament amend the law to remove the financial independence requirement which underpins the To Tatou Vai Authority user-pays funding model. On considering the submissions received, your committee agreed with the petition.

The Committee's report sets out recommendations - 'to allow TTV to focus on operational efficiency rather than revenue generation'. And, in particular, 'the removal of the financial independence requirement in the Act'.

Based on his response, Hon. Albert Nicholas, Minister for CIIC, has not implemented the Committee's recommendations. He believes '...no amendments are required'.

As it stands, the purpose of the To Tatou Vai Act is to, 4(c): 'provide the Authority with financial independence so it can operate in an economically sustainable way as a not-for-profit utility;'

In his response, the Minister asserts there is no financial independence requirement in the Act. This denial reflects a troubling lack of understanding of the legislation’s intent.

The law is clear. The petitioners have been clear. The Select Committee has been clear. The Minister, however, seems ill-advised and unwilling to carry-out his duty. He demonstrates apparent disregard for the institutions of Parliament.

We respectfully urge the Committee reassert and ensure its recommendation is upheld when the Minister's response is tabled, May 21.

Meitaki ma‘ata for your continued commitment to serving the public interest.

Kia manuia
Justine Matatoa Flanagan, 'Keep Our Water Free'