Transcript
PAULA BENNETT: Oh look, where we are at now – COP 23 is really about us trying to get into the rules of how we make sure that we administer what was decided at COP 21 at Paris. And everyone’s made significant promises and targets, New Zealand included. It’s the rules of how we achieve that post-2020 after Kyoto that makes the biggest difference, and that’s’ really what this COP is about. This morning so far we’ve had an opening address by Prime Minister Bainimarama, we’ve had another of other countries speak and New Zealand did as well and really showed our commitment to a) making a difference, but equally getting into the detail of what those rules mean and how we ensure that they’re at a place where we can make a difference worldwide.
DON WISEMAN: I agree that is it about ensuring that Paris is implemented, but the Pacific Island countries – and they’ve been talking about this for some time, they were talking about it at the time of Paris, they want a limit of no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels, which is lower than what Paris agreed on. I think it’s lower than what New Zealand and Australia agreed on. Is New Zealand prepared to come lower?
PB: We agree with the 1.5, in fact we see that as ambitious and something that we’re striving towards and we believe that our 2030 target is actually conducive to getting to 1.5 and contributing our bit towards that.
DW: Right. The other issue that is of particular interest to the Pacific is this idea of some form of insurance to really help those who are the victims of climate change. Is this something you would back?
PB: We’re certainly interested in having the discussions around it and seeing what that means in and getting into detail. So that’s part of this COP and it’s something we do think is really important. I do think there’s merit in it, how it actually pans out in terms of the detail, is something that we’re really passionate about getting involved in.
DW: There’s a lot of criticism for Australia’s plans or support for the huge Adani Coal Mine development. All Pacific Island countries want an end to that. Is this something New Zealand would bring up in discussions with Canberra?
PB: Oh looks it’s not my intention to play out international relations, particularly with Australia over the radio. The discussions that we do have and bilaterals will be with Australia will be in that context. I understand the concerns of the Pacific, but they’re also more than capable of fighting in their own corner and putting their views forward there.
DW: Yes, I think they would be happy to have New Zealand’s support and they’ve said that.
PB: Yes, I’m sure they would and it’s discussions that will be ongoing.
