Minister for Greater Christchurch Regeneration Megan Woods has appointed Alister James as interim chair of Southern Response Earthquake Services.

James brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has been a practicing barrister since 2001, and is a former Canterbury District Health Board chair, former Christchurch City Councillor and former Christchurch City Holdings chair. He was also a previous trustee and chair of Nga Hau e Wha Christchurch National Marae. Currently, James is Greater Christchurch Public Transport Joint Committee independent chair.

James will replace Ross Butler, who resigned from the Southern Response board after revelations on the government insurer’s use of spy firm Thompson & Clark. He takes up his new role immediately and until June 30, 2019.

“Having Alister James taking up the position of interim chair should provide confidence to the customers of Southern Response that the company is working hard to settle claims fairly,” Woods said. “His extensive legal knowledge and close connections with Christchurch bring further strength to the Southern Response board.

“My expectations for Southern Response remain the same: the organisation has the important job to do of resolving outstanding claims so people can get on with their lives.

“I know Alister will help Southern Response deliver on that task,” the minister added