Demonstrators demand independent quake commission

8:12 pm on 19 November 2011

About 150 residents have marched through central Christchurch, protesting against what they see as a lack of accountability from earthquake authorities.

The demonstration, organised by the Wider Earthquake Community Action Network, is calling for an independent advocacy commission that would have the power to suspend the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority's powers if it thought the community was being treated unfairly.

An organiser, Mike Coleman, says land zoning and insurance are two of the main problems residents are struggling with and the Government needs to intervene.

The demonstrators marched from Cranmer Square to CERA's offices where they laid down wooden crosses representing the state of their land.

Several local councillors and politicians also attended.

The group intends on organising protests until the Government responds to its concerns and considers possible solutions.