Jane Nees BOP Regional Councillor www.janenees.co.nz

This is the time of year when we look forward and make resolutions on how differently we want things to be in the year ahead. Faced with a new year, it is also fun to make predictions and then look back to see if they came true. For what it is worth - not much I am afraid – here are my predictions for 2012:

The international turmoil we have seen in 2011 will continue. Economically, Europe continues to look vulnerable, and the Euro threatened. This situation will continue to unfold and will get worse before it gets better. Politically, the unrest around the world will persist as people seek to be rid of repressive regimes.

Natural disasters and extreme weather events will continue to challenge us. We seem to have had more than our fair share in 2011, but unfortunately I believe this will continue in 2012.

In New Zealand, our government will continue with its change agenda. We can expect to see more reforms of the RMA and pressure for public sector reform generally. Our economic recovery will be slow but steady, however should there be a recession in Europe we can expect a further bumpy ride.

In the Bay of Plenty, we face significant headwinds with the impacts of Psa starting to bite. We also face a long slow cleanup of the effects of the Rena grounding. The break-up and sinking of the stern of the Rena has made recovery of the remaining containers and removal of the wreck much more difficult. It will be a marathon effort.

This all seems rather grim, however I remain optimistic because challenge and adversity tends to bring out the best in us all. It calls for innovation and effort, and time and time again, we have shown that we have the talent and the spirit to cope with whatever is thrown at us.

A major event which will occur in 2012 for us in Tauranga will be the Treaty of Waitangi settlements for local iwi. This will change our political and economic landscape and may threaten some. However I see it as a real opportunity for us to work positively together to make our place, a better place. Bring on 2012!

If you have any views on this or any other issue, please contact me on [email protected] or ring me on 07 579-5150. Or you can check out my website at www.janenees.co.nz