Environment Victoria notes that the Victorian government has released its response to the recommendations from the Hazelwood coal mine fire inquiry.
The following quotes can be attributed to Dr Nicholas Aberle, Safe Climate campaign manager at Environment Victoria.
“The majority of responses from the government are welcome and are a suitable reaction to the inquiry’s recommendations.”
“The concern of Environment Victoria remains that beyond the common sense introduction of some reforms such as an integrated fire management plan and improved reporting requirements, much policy work still remains to be done to prevent future coal mine fires.”
“The inquiry heard significant evidence that mine rehabilitation is the most effective method to prevent future mine fires. Unfortunately the Inquiry made no recommendations on rehabilitation.”
“Without a clear commitment to accelerating rehabilitation of non-working parts of the Hazelwood mine, people in the Latrobe Valley continue to be exposed to risk of future catastrophic fires.”
“Environment Victoria is seeking a commitment from all parties contesting the State election to accelerate rehabilitation efforts at all Victorian coal mines to reduce the risk to nearby communities and the environment.”
Media contact: Dr Nicolas Aberle on 0402 512 121.
For more information contact Holly Crocket on 0413 343 329.