Coal Industry

Today, Abigail asked whether the Government was weighing the negative environmental and economic impacts that coal projects would have on future generations in it’s decision making process.

Ms ABIGAIL BOYD (12:17): My question without notice is directed to the Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning representing the Minister for Regional New South Wales, Industry and Trade. Recently the New South Wales Independent Planning Commission rejected development consent for the Bylong Valley Coalmine, with its determination stating in part:

… predicted economic benefits would accrue to the present generation but the long-term environmental, heritage and agricultural costs will be borne by the future generations.

Given the planning commission's well-founded concern regarding unfairly placing the burden for fossil fuel use on future generations, is the Government reconsidering its approach to proposals for new or expanded coalmines?

The Hon. SARAH MITCHELL (Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning) (12:18): I thank Ms Abigail Boyd for the question. I will do the sensible thing and take that question on notice. I represent the Deputy Premier in this place, so I will come back to her with an answer on his behalf.

Read the full transcript on Hansard here.

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