NZ Government Faces Pressure to Release LNG Terminal Safety Info

A climate advocacy group is demanding that the government release safety information about its planned liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Port Taranaki, New Zealand. The Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment has confirmed it will proceed with the project to import LNG, citing a 'dry year' risk while more renewable energy is developed.

The group, Lawyers for Climate Action, has laid a complaint with the Ombudsman, asking for an investigation into why two initial safety evaluations completed by shortlisted providers have been withheld. The government claims the information must be kept confidential due to commercial sensitivity.

However, Lawyers for Climate Action argues that public interest and local residents' right to participate in decisions affecting them outweigh any potential commercial concerns.

Residents in New Plymouth have raised concerns about the terminal's proximity to residential areas, with thousands of people living within a 2km radius. Energy Minister Simeon Brown said it is possible the government could still sign a contract during the election campaign.