Media release: New Zealand Initiative lauds changes at the Earthquake Commission

Media release
23 February, 2018

Wellington (23 February 2018): The New Zealand Initiative welcomes the government’s willingness to make necessary changes at the Earthquake Commission.

Today, Chair of the EQC Board, Sir Maarten Wevers, announced his resignation. Minister Woods signalled changes to come at EQC.

“The Earthquake Commission needs a fresh start. We cannot again have outcomes like those experienced in the Christchurch earthquakes, and that continue even today with far too many unresolved claims seven years after the earthquake. Better permanent changes are yet needed at EQC,” said Dr Eric Crampton, Chief Economist with the New Zealand Initiative.

The New Zealand Initiative in January released a report, authored by Dr Crampton and Dr Bryce Wilkinson, on the policy lessons of the Christchurch earthquakes. Recipe for disaster: Building policy on shaky ground recommended changes to EQC.

“After a natural disaster, an insurer has a responsibility to its clients in ensuring speedy and fair treatment. Experience with EQC in Christchurch led too many to conclude that EQC was overly concerned with keeping the government’s costs down,” Crampton continued.

Dr Bryce Wilkinson added, “Our report supported the thrust of the changed insurance arrangements for claims arising from the Kaikoura earthquake. If proven successful we hope the government will move swiftly to institutionalise them – as we do not know when the next earthquake might come.”

Read more:
You can download Recipe for disaster: Building policy on shaky ground on our website

ENDS

Dr Eric Crampton and Dr Bryce Wilkinson are available for interviews, please contact:


Linda Heerink, Communications Officer
The New Zealand Initiative
Phone: +64 4 494 9109
Mobile: +64 21 172 8036
Email: linda.heerink@nzinitiative.org.nz   

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