It was great to hear in [Weekend Sun, May 5, p10-11 ‘Motiti protection area sparks outrage'] everyone agrees there needs to be more marine protection.

But actions speak louder than words. The actions of the groups opposing MMRT and Forest and Bird efforts to do this around Motiti have meant only small vulnerable areas will be protected.

In the meantime we are expected to continue to stand by and watch ('monitor”) the ongoing degradation of the wider area so that we can build a case for better management.

In 1958 the Inspector of Fisheries recommended putting in place protection for the overfished sea life around Motiti. That was in response to a request from the parents of the current MMR Trustees.

Surely 62 years of inaction and ongoing loss is enough to show that the current system is not working and our marine life is suffering.

What are others opposing these protection efforts going to do to make it better?

Kate Graeme, Tauranga Branch Forest & Bird