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Minister Simmonds Faces Backlash Over Irrigation-Consent Delays

10/2/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment, contacted Horizons Regional Council to seek clarity on irrigation-consent delays affecting farmers, including National MP Suze Redmayne's farm.
She proposed a meeting with ministers to address concerns.
Green Party's Lan Pham accused Simmonds of power misuse and conflicts of interest.
Simmonds defended engagement; Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reiterates Cabinet Manual guidelines.

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Story summary

Penny Simmonds, Minister for the Environment, contacted Horizons Regional Council to seek clarity on irrigation-consent delays affecting farmers, including National MP Suze Redmayne's farm.
She proposed a meeting with ministers to address concerns.
Green Party's Lan Pham accused Simmonds of power misuse and conflicts of interest.
Simmonds defended engagement; Prime Minister's Office (PMO) reiterates Cabinet Manual guidelines.