Greens ensure State of Environment Report before 2007 election - 10 November 2005

Greens MLC Ian Cohen has been successful in moving to ensure that the NSW State of the Environment Report is produced before the next state election.

“Legislation introduced by the Government attempted to cut the State of the Environment Report to a once every four year scheme rather than the current once every three year system,” Mr Cohen said.

“This was designed not only to reduce environmental reporting but in the short term to push the next report out until after the next state election.

“Combined with the fact that the Iemma Government appears keen to attempt to put the environment on the back burner, voters would be right to be cynical about the Government’s motives.

“I am pleased that the Upper House backed my amendment to the Protection of the Environment Operations Amendment Bill so that the State of the Environment Report will continue to be produced once every three years.

“It is of course critical that the public is kept well informed about the state of NSW’s environment. Our democracy relies not just on voting but requires a well informed electorate.

“In the lead up to March 2007 voters deserve to have an up to date report card on the environment.” Mr Cohen said.