Allocation of natural resources

Presentation

Does initial allocation matter? In theory no, if have ability to trade
Terms of Right:
- sufficient length to facilitate investment
- ideally in perpetuity
- potentially separate term of consent from term of resource right
- need security for incumbent at end of term ("Right of Renewal")
Worried about Waitaki and aquaculture precedents
Property rights
- need greater clarity of ownership access
- recognition of existing rights is essential
- provides right conditions for investment
- ability to trade/transfer rights also required
- enables resources to be allocated to highest value uses
- enables new entrants access to resources
Review timescale
- complex issues
- potential to make things worse
- most issues cannot be addressed by September 2004. Possibly some may.
- greater security for consent holders at end of consent term
Plans
- should not specify end use - central planning
- need to consider other frameworks for resource allocation - land, minerals, radio
Is RMA most appropriate mechanism for resources allocation?

Issues discussion
- certainty for existing consent holders
- transferability
- rights of renewal
- first come - first served
- accounting for externalities
- efficiency of use of market driven?
- consistent framework for regional councils
- audit allocation approach
Responsibilities
- central government
- regional councils
- clarify of legislative process
- facilitation by central government
- achieving participation
- understanding costs framework of charges
Questions
- should the RMA allocate (non) renewable resources?
- method to seek access?
- should allocation mechanisms be clarified in the Act?
Common themes
- allocation vs effects
- establishing priority
- central guidance/participation
- bluntness of process

Last updated: 6 May 2008