Matthew Denholm; 6/1/09
Final approval for the $2.2billion Gunns pulp mill is now more than two years away after federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett imposed new conditions, casting further doubt over the controversial project. As forecast exclusively by The Australian, Mr Garrett yesterday announced new hurdles facing the project, withholding final approval for a vital environmental impact management plan. Construction of the mill in Tasmania’s Tamar Valley can begin if, or when, Gunns obtains the financial backing or a joint venture partner that has so far eluded the timber giant. However, final approval for the EIMP will not occur for at least a further 26 months. Opponents welcomed the move to impose new restrictions, but were disappointed Gunns could begin building. Tamar Valley wine grower Peter Whish-Wilson said if the mill were proposed for Sydney’s northern beaches, where Mr Garrett helped found a Surf Riders group, the minister would not allow one brick to be laid.
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24877777-2702,00.htm; I can’t kill Gunns pulp mill, says Peter Garrett; 5/1/09; http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24876558-26103,00.html
Tags: Australia, Environment, Trade