Statement from Jan Dawson, Ports of Auckland Chair
Mayor Brown jumps the gun on Auckland port future
"The Mayor's broad ranging press release today was unexpected by the Ports of Auckland Board. This is because management were still working closely with council officials to finalise the proposed letter of expectation" said Chair, Jan Dawson
"The Board of the Ports of Auckland will meet on Wednesday to consider the matters raised by the Mayor and the potential impact his statement may have on the port staff wellbeing, the ports long term value, its ability to return a dividend to Aucklanders and how the port's customers will respond.
"By prescribing a desired outcome and timetable for the progressive closure of the port operations, it appears Mayor Brown has predetermined the outcomes of the joint study which Minister Wood and the Mayor announced only last Friday.
"Ports of Auckland is not reluctant to return waterfront land to Aucklanders. Over the last 25 years we have returned 117ha to Auckland Council. Much of that land is still yet to be developed by Council. The tank farm at Wynyard Quarter and the Port of Onehunga are two examples.
"We are committed to working with all councillors to determine the best outcomes for Auckland and the NZ supply chain. We look forward to a reasoned and considered discussion with the full council and the Minister of Transport's office on the future of the Ports of Auckland over the coming months." said Dawson
ENDS
