Independent views By Brendan Horan

We don't want to be left with a rotting carcass on what was a pristine, popular dive reef –and we don't want a continued exclusion zone restricting access for years to come.

The Rena plague continues to haunt our reputation as a region of pristine beaches with environmental consciousness.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council has received two resource consent applications from Rena owners Costamare (Daina Shipping Co), to leave sections of the wreck on the reef along with associated debris; and to provide for any future contaminants from leaving the wreck in place.

Further, the owners are requesting to refer the application directly to the Environment Court. My guess is their reasoning behind this is an attempt to bypass local process.

A move directly to the Environmental Court would circumvent re-igniting local anger – and this being an election year it may not look good for the current Government and in particular local MPs, who can't put their hands up and say they've done anything locally in regard to this disaster.

I wonder if the ship's owners perceive doing a deal with the Government is easier than with locals and local iwi, who clearly want the wreck removed completely.

All relevant information can be found on www.renaresourceconsent.org.nz

I implore locals visit the site and make online submissions against the wreck remaining.

If you'd like to discuss this or any other issues please contact me. twitter.com/brendanhoran or call Brendan on 07 574 0253.