4. RODNEY HIDE (Leader—ACT) Link to this
to the Minister of Local Government
What progress has been made on establishing the “independent inquiry into issues around local government rates funding” that he announced on 23 August 2006?
Hon MARK BURTON (Minister of Local Government) Link to this
Good progress has been made. Consultation has been undertaken with a range of interested parties, and I have taken time to give careful consideration to the suggestions of other stakeholders and interested individuals such as the member who asks this question. I anticipate announcing the terms of reference shortly.
Is the expectation of ratepayers of rates relief from the Government a bit like the expectation that taxpayers have of the Labour Party ever paying back the money it owes—that it really is on the never-never and it is not going to happen?
I can only say to the member that I anticipate the suit size I have shed in pursuit of a robust inquiry will ultimately bear more tangible benefit to the public of New Zealand than his extended forays on to the dance floor, which caused 12 weeks of parliamentary delay of his supposedly important parliamentary rates capping bill.
Mark BlumskyDoes the Minister agree with the Local Government Forum when it says: “It is particularly unfair that the Crown makes no contribution for its land, especially as local authority infrastructure can be put under severe pressure by the visitors who are attracted to national parks and other reserves.”; and will the inquiry address this burden on those who pay rates?
When the inquiry looks at the burden of rates I am sure it will also be taking into account the fact that central government contributes 13 percent of the finances of local government—the highest it has ever been.
Hon Brian Donnelly Link to this
Has the Minister met with every party that has requested a meeting over the proposed terms of reference for the inquiry; if so, has he met with ACT?