Deep sea mining ‘roadshow’ in NZ

A smoke signaller writes on the deep sea mining issue: “Only 60 people turned up out of over 5,000 Cook Islanders in Wellington for the Mark Brown political bandwagon show. It confirms the majority are against the destruction of our fragile ocean and ecosystems. Are Tou, George, Pere and the Hermans on the payroll and receiving $$$ from government? Sophie Benbow, director of marine programme at a Conservation Charity, warned of the potentially irreversible losses of ocean biodiversity. A study led by Travis Washburn, a researcher at the Geological Survey of Japan, highlights the destructive effects of deep-sea mining on marine ecosystems. The study shows that mining operations lead to the disappearance of marine life from both the immediate area and surrounding regions.”

fine fire spreaders

In response to yesterday’s front page story ‘Fires continue despite warnings’ – and lots of fire engine sirens yesterday – a smoke signaler writes: “Government should impose a total fire ban and police it, starting with a $2000 fine for anyone starting a fire that leads to a callout. No leniency, stop fires altogether, whatever it takes. The island doesn't have water let alone enough pressure to squirt hoses or fill water tankers.”

where’s the rain?

We’ve all got our favourite online weather websites and they seem to have one thing in common these days – they’re all great at shifting rain predictions from one week to the next! The weather computers yesterday are predicting rain – sorely needed to reduce the island’s fire risk – from next Wednesday morning November 27 and continuing for six days. Let’s hope this happens! 

COME ON, SMOKE IT! TEXT 80-999

If you feel there are wrongs that need righting, something that’s escaped public attention and needs airing, or just an interesting observation, send us a Smokie by email to editor@cookislandsnews.com, or Messenger messages via Facebook to Cook Islands News. And we now have a cool new mobile number that you can text Smoke Signals and news leads to: 80-999.  C’mon, Smoke it!