Photo: Supplied / Gisborne District Council / Dr Murray Cave

After the destruction caused by slash during last week’s cyclone, and repeated calls from locals, farmers and environmental groups,  the government yesterday announced a ministerial inquiry.

The Forestry Minister Stuart Nash had previously rejected calls for an inquiry and just last month suggested that forestry companies should “sit down with key stakeholders”.

Gisborne resident and former government minister Hekia Parata will chair the inquiry.

Susie speaks with Hera Ngata-Gibson from the group Mana Taiao Tairāwhiti which includes farmers and horticulturalists, Māori landowners and conservation workers.

Also Environmental Defence Society chief executive Gary Taylor who has long been calling for a full inquiry into forestry practices.