PCE letter to Minister Jones on the EPA and Fast-track Approvals Act

The Parliamentary Commissioner for the Environment has written a letter to Minister Shane Jones responding to the Minister's recent remarks about the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) to express concern over comments that questioned the agency’s ability to implement fast-track legislation.

The Commissioner defended the EPA’s professionalism and technical expertise, noting the complexity of its legislative responsibilities and the importance of evidence-based decision-making. He cautioned against politicising environmental processes, urging the Minister to respect the EPA’s independence.