Coal seam gas moratorium call

THE Clarence Valley will join the majority of North Coast councils in a call for a moratorium on coal seam gas mining, if a motion put forward by Councillor Margaret McKenna is adopted by Clarence Valley Council.

The motion will have to make it through the Environment, Economic and Community Committee tomorrow and full council next week.

Cr McKenna, who was the only councillor to attend the Environmental Defenders' Office seminar on coal seam gas in South Grafton last month, said further research was needed regarding the impact of exploration and drilling on the environment, water, personal property and amenities.

“Until this research is conducted, all drilling should be stopped,” Cr McKenna said in her submission.

“I understand Clarence Valley Council is not directly responsible for legislation related to mining, however, local government has an important role to play advocating for its constituents.

“I am seeking council support in advocating for our constituents to the State Government about the possible impact of coal seam gas mining on our environment, our water, personal property and amenity.”

Cr McKenna asked for letters to be written to Premier Barry O'Farrell, Resources and Energy Minister Chris Hartcher and Member for Clarence Steve Cansdell, calling for the moratorium until the community could be satisfied about water, environment, economic and safety issues.

Cr McKenna welcomed new aquifer protection regulations announced by the State Government this week.

“However there are many other issues that need addressing by the Government before it is too late.”

Mayor Richie Williamson said in May that the council was taking a “wait and see approach” as to whether it should call for a moratorium, saying mining was primarily a State Government issue.

So far in the region, Ballina, Lismore, Kyogle, Tweed and Byron Bay councils have passed moratoriums on coal seam gas mining, as has Rous Water, while Richmond Valley Council has not.

The NSW Department of Planning last month approved the development of the gas-based Richmond Valley Power Station.