Royal Commission set up into Christchurch earthquake
Cabinet has agreed to establish a Royal Commission on the Canterbury Earthquake | First report due in six months.
Prime Minister John Key says Cabinet has agreed to establish a Royal Commission on the Canterbury Earthquake.
The inquiry will examine issues around the built environment in the Christchurch CBD including, but not limited to, the CTV and PGC buildings, as well as the adequacy of the relevant building codes and standards into the future, Mr Key said. It will also take into account, but not be limited by, a technical investigation already underway by the Department of Building and Housing into the performance of the Canterbury Television, PGC, Forsyth Barr and Hotel Grand Chancellor buildings.
“So many lives have been lost as a result of the February 22 earthquake that we must find answers, particularly about why such a significant loss of life occurred in two buildings,” Mr Key said.
The Royal Commission will be chaired by Justice Mark Cooper, a sitting High Court judge. Two other Commissioners will also be appointed, and terms of reference will be finalised in consultation with the chairman.
An interim report will be delivered in six months - and include any recommendations on the construction of new buildings in the Christchurch CBD, while the final report-back in approximately 12 months will include recommendations on any remaining areas of inquiry.
NBR staff
Mon, 14 Mar 2011
Mon, 14 Mar 2011
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Royal Commission set up into Christchurch earthquake
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