The Hodgman government needs to ensure its review into hydraulic fracturing, known as fracking, genuinely engages with Tasmanians over their concerns and is not just an attempt to whitewash the controversial issue, Greens Leader and Mining spokesperson Kim Booth MP said.
“Tasmanians, including farmers and land-owners, have already made it very clear that they do not want fracking occurring on their properties now or in the future,” Mr Booth said.
“The Greens welcome the 12 month moratorium, which in itself validates the serious concerns raised by the community about the impacts of fracking. However, we urge the Minister, Jeremy Rockliff to ensure the review is not just an attempt to sanitise the issue and justify endorsing fracking ventures into the future.”
“Instead of a review, people have been calling for the right to prevent mining companies from automatically accessing their private property and that public land is also protected for future generations.”
“Nationally and internationally there is mounting evidence of serious problems inherent with coal seam gas production and fracking. All this does is subject the local community to long term pain for very little gain.”
“Concerned Tasmanians need to get involved between now and March next year, and ensure the review recommends the short-term moratorium becomes permanent,” Mr Booth said.