Public gets to have say on EQC inquiry

Cantabrians are being called on to provide direction for an inquiry into the Earthquake Commission (EQC), as the Government works urgently on new mechanisms to settle outstanding claims.

Minister for Greater Christchurch Regeneration Megan Woods said the Government was working hard to establish the independent inquiry into EQC and wanted to hear directly from people in Canterbury, to help develop the inquiry’s terms of reference.

An online form has been set up, asking the public what they want the inquiry to cover and for them to share their experiences and make suggestions about the review. ‘‘We know that this won’t be the last natural disaster EQC has to deal with and we want to make sure all of the lessons from the Canterbury earthquakes are being learned so that the system is better for people in the future,’’ Woods said.

She had talked to hundreds of people who faced difficult issues with EQC, she said. They wanted to know their issues were being heard and no-one else would have to go through what they had.

‘‘The Government is working urgently on new mechanisms for resolving these outstanding claims – including new tribunals to help people get resolutions. We’re also looking at a new wraparound service to speed up resolution of claims and will have more to say in the new year.’’

The Residential Advisory Service, which provides independent advice to help people get their claims settled, will have an 0800 number (0800 777 299) available over the Christmas period.

Woods said the holidays could be a lonely and stressful time, ‘‘especially for people who are still stuck in limbo dealing with EQC or their insurance companies to try and get earthquake claims resolved’’.

‘‘The message we want to send to Cantabrians still battling through these issues is that they aren’t alone, support is there.’’