Purpose

The aim of the evaluation of the Act is to further reduce drownings by improving compliance and enforcement of the Act and also to:

• assess the current risks posed to young children under the existing provisions of the Act
• improve uniformity in the interpretation and application of the Act by territorial authorities across New Zealand
• provide more certainty to pool owners and territorial authorities on their responsibilities and obligations under the Act
• increase public awareness of pool owners' responsibilities under the Act.

At this early stage we are aware of a number of issues with the Act. Before we make proposals to address these issues, we want to be sure that we have understood them fully and identified the different options for resolving them.

As someone affected by or involved in the operation of the Act, this paper describes and seeks your feedback on:

• the issues and whether they have been accurately defined
• options to resolve the issues
• the impact of the options on pool owners, territorial authorities and the public as a whole
• any other issues affecting compliance with, or enforcement of, the Act.

The closing date for submissions is 30 June 2008. The feedback will be analysed and further research carried out through 2008 in conjunction with key stakeholders. Following this, proposals will be made on the preferred options for resolving some or all of the issues.

A second paper is planned in early 2009 to seek your views on proposals developed from the consultation.