Southland leaders have received a note from Finance Minister Grant Robertson confirming his "willingness" to host a further meeting to discuss the region’s future. Mr Hicks said yesterday he was "optimistic" a new meeting could go ahead. "[We’ve] Just got a note from Mr Robertson and yes, we will be meeting Mr Robertson, but the timing has been slightly put out given what has happened in the last few days. The new meeting was agreed and announced after Southland leaders hosted Ms Ardern, Mr Robertson, as well as ministers Megan Woods and Shane Jones, on July 16 when representations were made on behalf of the region. The initial proposal was they would meet the Government’s representatives in Wellington, but Mr Hicks said they were exploring options to suit everyone.

Source: Otago Daily Times August 17, 2020 16:30 UTC