Infighting over money and attempts to justify mythical ‘cultural' payments that frankly have nothing to do with the environmental issues in the MV Rena application is appalling. Addressing adverse environmental effects; protection of the Bay of Plenty marine environment and assisting the Bay of Plenty coastline and beaches recover are overlooked and some it seems couldn't care less so long as their own self-interests are served. Doesn't anyone care about the marine environment?
If any danger apparent, then address that, but the wreck is not currently regarded as
a navigation hazard. Nature often has the ability to repair and recover naturally.
Confidential meetings involving the Crown, Rena owners/insurers and part-Maori interests do nothing to inspire public confidence lacking transparency and accountability. Even Hearing Panel is unaware of the details so how can final assessments be made.
The implications and precedents set by 'horse trading” around perceived cultural considerations are ruinous.
Effectively the Crown looks like a Waitangi Tribunal mouthpiece, with talk of Treaty obligations and changing nebulous cultural dynamics.
The Crown's obligation is to all Kiwis, not just Maori interests.
On basis of scientific/engineering assessments with validity and integrity established to the satisfaction of the Hearing Panel indicating no further significant adverse environmental outcomes will arise in the coastal area and appropriate protection measures at applicants' cost put in place in the event of any future issues then RMA approvals should be granted.

R Paterson, Tauranga