Greens MP and environmental spokesperson Ian Cohen is seeking a commitment from the Labor Party and the Coalition to establish an inquiry into the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water's (DECCW) approval of old-growth forest logging. A recent independent audit commissioned by DECCW has revealed consistent and continued approval of illegal logging in old-growth forests.
"Over six months ago at the 2010 Budget Estimates hearings I requested DECCW provide the independent audit of private native forestry in NSW. We now have an independent report before us that clearly demonstrates DECCW have approved areas of old-growth forest for logging, contrary to their own laws and guidelines," said Mr Cohen.
"The review looked at 12 properties undertaking approved private native forestry operations. Extrapolating the results out it appears that 75% of mapped old-growth on those properties (8,490 hectares) has been illegally approved for logging.”
"The results demonstrate that the old-growth forest assessment process is flawed. DECCW has reassessed 9518 hectares and allegedly decided that 7898 hectares are not old-growth forest and is open for logging."
"Considering the dire biodiversity impacts associated with old-growth logging any political party serious about confronting biodiversity loss in NSW should support a rigorous parliamentary inquiry in May 2011."
"Without review and reconsideration, proposed objectives in Draft NSW Biodiversity Strategy 2010-2015 will simply be unattainable. It will greatly undermine our ability to preserve biodiversity in the face of increasing climate change impacts."
"While I was disappointed that the Deputy Opposition Leader, Andrew Stoner allegedly committed the NSW Coalition to 'ripping up' the Native Vegetation Act back in February 2010 I do hope that the Coalition can support a review of how we protect our unique and beautiful old-growth forests and their inherent biodiversity."
"I will be writing to the Leader of the Opposition to secure agreement to refer the regulation of private native forestry to parliamentary inquiry when the new parliament resumes."
Further Information: Ian Cohen 0409 989 466
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Showing posts with label media. Show all posts
Monday, February 14, 2011
Orica barred from exporting its toxic legacy - 3 December 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen is congratulating the Danish Environment Minister, Karen Ellemann for halting the receipt of 6100 tonnes of hexachlorobenzene (HCB) from the Orica facility in Sydney. The Danish Government had previously agreed to accept the toxic HCB waste and incinerate the waste in the local Nyborg community.
"The decision of the Danish Environment Minister to protect the health of Danish citizens and the local environment demonstrates the irresponsibility of the former Australian Environment Minister, Peter Garrett in licensing the export of the HCB waste," said Mr Cohen
"Rather than forcing the hand of Orica to take full responsibility for their waste by adequately investing in indirect desorption facilities within the Australian jurisdiction, Peter Garrett will be placing the global environment at great risk."
"There is an inherent danger in shipping highly toxic waste across vast oceanic distances. We have witnessed a number of recent maritime disasters involving oil tankers within Australian waters. An accident on the high seas involving HCB waste cargo spilling into the sea would cause environmental destruction of an unimaginable scale."
"I also want to congratulate the dock workers of Denmark and their colleagues in Sweden and Norway for refusing to unload the toxic cargo. They have done a great service for the international environment and the local communities in Nyborg."
"I will call on the current Australian Environment Minister Tony Burke to revoke Orica's HCB export licence issued by Peter Garrett. I will also call on the current Environment Minister to force the hand of Orica to invest in industry leading technology to dispose of the waste in a way that does not harm the community or the environment."
“Orica needs to protect both the local and international community and be made to treat the waste at an appropriate Australian treatment facility. They created the waste and must be completely responsible for its safe disposal within Australia.”
Further Information: Ian Cohen 0409 989 466
"The decision of the Danish Environment Minister to protect the health of Danish citizens and the local environment demonstrates the irresponsibility of the former Australian Environment Minister, Peter Garrett in licensing the export of the HCB waste," said Mr Cohen
"Rather than forcing the hand of Orica to take full responsibility for their waste by adequately investing in indirect desorption facilities within the Australian jurisdiction, Peter Garrett will be placing the global environment at great risk."
"There is an inherent danger in shipping highly toxic waste across vast oceanic distances. We have witnessed a number of recent maritime disasters involving oil tankers within Australian waters. An accident on the high seas involving HCB waste cargo spilling into the sea would cause environmental destruction of an unimaginable scale."
"I also want to congratulate the dock workers of Denmark and their colleagues in Sweden and Norway for refusing to unload the toxic cargo. They have done a great service for the international environment and the local communities in Nyborg."
"I will call on the current Australian Environment Minister Tony Burke to revoke Orica's HCB export licence issued by Peter Garrett. I will also call on the current Environment Minister to force the hand of Orica to invest in industry leading technology to dispose of the waste in a way that does not harm the community or the environment."
“Orica needs to protect both the local and international community and be made to treat the waste at an appropriate Australian treatment facility. They created the waste and must be completely responsible for its safe disposal within Australia.”
Further Information: Ian Cohen 0409 989 466
Toxic legacy sets sail in ship of shame - 30 November 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen has called for an immediate ban on shipping thousands of litres of Australian generated toxic waste, notably hexachlorobenzene (HCB), to Denmark.
'NSW Government's of both political persuasions have been well aware of the HCB storage at Botany. Coalition and ALP Government's have ignored the mountains of toxic waste capped under a car park at the Botany site. I highlighted the issue as far back as 1987 with a direct action campaign at the site.
“Allowing this industrial waste to leave Australian shores would pose an unacceptable risk to the environment" Mr Cohen said.
"There is an inherent danger in shipping highly toxic waste across vast oceanic distances. I am advised that one of the ships potentially involved in transporting the waste has failed several recent safety inspections. The consequences of a spill at sea would be catastrophic.
“The Commonwealth Government's own fact sheet states that exposure to HCB can harm the liver, immune and kidney systems. It is a known carcinogen and is toxic to young children, with exposure causing decreased infant survival rates.
“Danish public sentiment is so strongly against their country accepting our industrial waste that their unions have refused to unload the toxic waste when it arrives.
"Unless we stop this material being loaded it will head off on the high seas only to meet a ban on unloading in Europe. This means the waste will be offloaded at the first port willing to take it and there will be no guarantee that another country would have the appropriate facilities to process the waste.
“Orica needs to protect both the local and international community and be made to treat the waste at an appropriate Australian treatment facility. They created the waste and must be completely responsible for its safe disposal within Australia” Mr Cohen said.
'NSW Government's of both political persuasions have been well aware of the HCB storage at Botany. Coalition and ALP Government's have ignored the mountains of toxic waste capped under a car park at the Botany site. I highlighted the issue as far back as 1987 with a direct action campaign at the site.
“Allowing this industrial waste to leave Australian shores would pose an unacceptable risk to the environment" Mr Cohen said.
"There is an inherent danger in shipping highly toxic waste across vast oceanic distances. I am advised that one of the ships potentially involved in transporting the waste has failed several recent safety inspections. The consequences of a spill at sea would be catastrophic.
“The Commonwealth Government's own fact sheet states that exposure to HCB can harm the liver, immune and kidney systems. It is a known carcinogen and is toxic to young children, with exposure causing decreased infant survival rates.
“Danish public sentiment is so strongly against their country accepting our industrial waste that their unions have refused to unload the toxic waste when it arrives.
"Unless we stop this material being loaded it will head off on the high seas only to meet a ban on unloading in Europe. This means the waste will be offloaded at the first port willing to take it and there will be no guarantee that another country would have the appropriate facilities to process the waste.
“Orica needs to protect both the local and international community and be made to treat the waste at an appropriate Australian treatment facility. They created the waste and must be completely responsible for its safe disposal within Australia” Mr Cohen said.
Hunter's Hill Radioactive football: where will it land next? - 18 October 2010
NSW Greens MLC and Chair of the Inquiry into the Former uranium smelter site, Hunter's Hill Ian Cohen is calling on the NSW Government to disclose details of how it classified potentially radioactive waste from Nelson Parade in Hunter's Hill.
"During the Inquiry I asked a Department of Environment representative whether the radioactive material at Hunter's Hill would be diluted with other materials to allow the contaminated soil to be classified as restricted solid waste. The Department indicated that dilution of material would not be an acceptable way of complying with regulatory standards," said Mr Cohen.
"If dilution has not occurred then the potentially radioactive contaminated soil would need to contain less than the prescribed amount 100 becquerels per gram in order to be classified as restricted industrial waste as opposed to radioactive waste."
"In relation to the classification the Committee considered a number of historical reports on contamination levels. While the Committee noted that more recent studies showed soil samples from the site as below the 100 bequerals/gram benchmark, it did acknowledge the potential for some soil excavated from hotspots to exceed the 100 bequerals/gram benchmark requiring classification as hazardous waste."
"If the contaminated soil has been inappropriately classified, then the waste cannot be disposed of at Kemps Creek and the Government will have to look at other disposal options, keeping in mind that the ANSTO Lucas Heights facility is not permitted to store the waste."
"I understand the concern expressed by Liberal candidate for Mulgoa, Tanya Davis and call on her to review the classification material in a bid to drive an informed and reasoned discussion about whether Kemps Creek can take the waste. What more I call on Ms Davis to rally with me against the Liberal Party's unending support for unrestricted uranium mining and development of a domestic nuclear energy sector."
"Generations of pro-nuclear Governments, at both a state and federal level, have dodged this issue. No community right across Australia wants to be the repository of radioactive waste. Kemps Creek residents don't want it and neither do the Aboriginal communities of Muckaty Station. This should be a wakeup call for any political party proposing nuclear energy development."
"During the Inquiry I asked a Department of Environment representative whether the radioactive material at Hunter's Hill would be diluted with other materials to allow the contaminated soil to be classified as restricted solid waste. The Department indicated that dilution of material would not be an acceptable way of complying with regulatory standards," said Mr Cohen.
"If dilution has not occurred then the potentially radioactive contaminated soil would need to contain less than the prescribed amount 100 becquerels per gram in order to be classified as restricted industrial waste as opposed to radioactive waste."
"In relation to the classification the Committee considered a number of historical reports on contamination levels. While the Committee noted that more recent studies showed soil samples from the site as below the 100 bequerals/gram benchmark, it did acknowledge the potential for some soil excavated from hotspots to exceed the 100 bequerals/gram benchmark requiring classification as hazardous waste."
"If the contaminated soil has been inappropriately classified, then the waste cannot be disposed of at Kemps Creek and the Government will have to look at other disposal options, keeping in mind that the ANSTO Lucas Heights facility is not permitted to store the waste."
"I understand the concern expressed by Liberal candidate for Mulgoa, Tanya Davis and call on her to review the classification material in a bid to drive an informed and reasoned discussion about whether Kemps Creek can take the waste. What more I call on Ms Davis to rally with me against the Liberal Party's unending support for unrestricted uranium mining and development of a domestic nuclear energy sector."
"Generations of pro-nuclear Governments, at both a state and federal level, have dodged this issue. No community right across Australia wants to be the repository of radioactive waste. Kemps Creek residents don't want it and neither do the Aboriginal communities of Muckaty Station. This should be a wakeup call for any political party proposing nuclear energy development."
More consultation needed as Repco Rally rolls south - 30 September 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen is hailing the end of the Repco Rally in the Northern Rivers region as a significant win for the local community but remains concerned about the potential impact of the 2011 Repco Rally for Coffs Harbour communities.
"The change in location to Coffs Harbour is a win for the Northern Rivers community who have fought so hard against this environmentally and financially irresponsible event," said Mr Cohen.
"Holding an international motor sport in one of Australia's most biodiverse and iconic natural areas - the Green Cauldron - demonstrates the frightening lack of vision in Events NSW."
"However, simply moving the event is not a win for the wider community as the Coffs Harbour area may face similar issues to those experienced in the Northern Rivers region. The organisers and the NSW Government need to open the books on the event and commission an independent examination of the submissions made to the IMC Review."
"Moving the Repco Rally to Coffs Harbour also does not address the lingering concerns about the economic costs and benefits of this event. Recently I called on the Government to release all papers relating to direct Government expenditure and economic assessments, but instead of providing all relevant information they claimed commercial in confidence over a large proportion of papers."
"I think there is a real fear that the income generation figures touted by the Treasurer Eric Roozendaal are grossly inflated and inaccurate. There remain questions as to why any local area would accommodate this type of event."
"I again call on the Government to release detailed costing on how much they have spent on this event and what the real profits will be so that the people of Coffs Harbour can make an informed decision about whether they want the Repco Rally in their backyard," said Mr Cohen.
"The change in location to Coffs Harbour is a win for the Northern Rivers community who have fought so hard against this environmentally and financially irresponsible event," said Mr Cohen.
"Holding an international motor sport in one of Australia's most biodiverse and iconic natural areas - the Green Cauldron - demonstrates the frightening lack of vision in Events NSW."
"However, simply moving the event is not a win for the wider community as the Coffs Harbour area may face similar issues to those experienced in the Northern Rivers region. The organisers and the NSW Government need to open the books on the event and commission an independent examination of the submissions made to the IMC Review."
"Moving the Repco Rally to Coffs Harbour also does not address the lingering concerns about the economic costs and benefits of this event. Recently I called on the Government to release all papers relating to direct Government expenditure and economic assessments, but instead of providing all relevant information they claimed commercial in confidence over a large proportion of papers."
"I think there is a real fear that the income generation figures touted by the Treasurer Eric Roozendaal are grossly inflated and inaccurate. There remain questions as to why any local area would accommodate this type of event."
"I again call on the Government to release detailed costing on how much they have spent on this event and what the real profits will be so that the people of Coffs Harbour can make an informed decision about whether they want the Repco Rally in their backyard," said Mr Cohen.
Government negligence confirmed in HMAS Adelaide case - 16 September 2010
Greens MLC Ian Cohen congratulates the No Ship Action Group and the Environmental Defender's Office for their legal campaign following today's decision from the Administrative Appeals Tribunal into the scuttling of the HMAS Adelaide.
"The presumptuous way in which the initial planning and approval was carried out is yet another example of both the Federal and NSW Governments disregarding due process and local community concerns to drive through an activity that was known to be environmentally detrimental" said Greens MLC Ian Cohen.
"From the outset, the people of NSW were misled over the assessment and removal of toxic chemicals from the HMAS Adelaide and it was only until this matter was taken to court that anything approximately a fair hearing was achieved. It is a great success that the Government will now be forced to clean up lead and PCBs on board before the HMAS Adelaide is scuttled.
"Imagine if Minister Tony Kelly had been allowed to go ahead with the scuttling in March as originally planned? We would be faced with an environmental catastrophe that would have passed on a toxic legacy to generations to come.
"The concerns of the local community that they were not being provided with comprehensive and accurate information about the environmental impact of the scuttling of the HMAS Adelaide have been proven to be valid by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal finding.
"Given the findings of the Tribunal and the lack of due process followed by the Federal Government in approving the scuttling without imposing conditions on first cleaning up the toxins, we must now question whether or not previous sinkings of decommissioned navy ships have been allowed to pollute our precious marine environment.
"I congratulate the No Ship Action Group and the Environmental Defender's Office for standing up to the Federal and NSW Governments to ensure that the local community and the environment were given the respect they deserve" said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Ian Cohen 0409 989 466
"The presumptuous way in which the initial planning and approval was carried out is yet another example of both the Federal and NSW Governments disregarding due process and local community concerns to drive through an activity that was known to be environmentally detrimental" said Greens MLC Ian Cohen.
"From the outset, the people of NSW were misled over the assessment and removal of toxic chemicals from the HMAS Adelaide and it was only until this matter was taken to court that anything approximately a fair hearing was achieved. It is a great success that the Government will now be forced to clean up lead and PCBs on board before the HMAS Adelaide is scuttled.
"Imagine if Minister Tony Kelly had been allowed to go ahead with the scuttling in March as originally planned? We would be faced with an environmental catastrophe that would have passed on a toxic legacy to generations to come.
"The concerns of the local community that they were not being provided with comprehensive and accurate information about the environmental impact of the scuttling of the HMAS Adelaide have been proven to be valid by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal finding.
"Given the findings of the Tribunal and the lack of due process followed by the Federal Government in approving the scuttling without imposing conditions on first cleaning up the toxins, we must now question whether or not previous sinkings of decommissioned navy ships have been allowed to pollute our precious marine environment.
"I congratulate the No Ship Action Group and the Environmental Defender's Office for standing up to the Federal and NSW Governments to ensure that the local community and the environment were given the respect they deserve" said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Ian Cohen 0409 989 466
Government recognises life-saving success of Kings Cross injecting room - 15 September 2010
Greens MLC Ian Cohen welcomes the NSW Government's decision to introduce legislation to make the Kings Cross injecting room a permanent service.
"My involvement in this issue goes right back to my membership of the Inquiry into Safe Injecting Rooms in the late 1990s and I am incredibly proud that we have now reached a stage where this vital public health service can move out of its trial status and be provided with the ongoing certainty that will only continue to benefit people struggling with drug addiction as well as the wider community" said Mr Cohen.
"After almost 10 years, the evidence is clear that the Kings Cross injecting room has played an enormous role in saving over 3,000 lives and has not had the negative impact on crime in Kings Cross as initially feared by the injecting room's detractors.
"Published medical literature has conclusively shown us that opioid related overdoses and injuries have significantly declined since the injecting room was opened, and that it has flow-on benefits to the community by lowering demand for ambulance services.
"There is widespread support from medical experts and peak medical bodies for the work done by the Kings Cross injecting room as it is recognised that it is a pragmatic and effective response to the issue of intravenous drug addiction.
"The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research have reviewed the volume of crime in Kings Cross between 1999 and March 2010 and found that there was "no evidence" that the injecting room has negatively impacted on crime in this area. This applies not just to drug offences, but also to theft, robbery, property crimes.
"I applaud the Government for acknowledging the clear evidence that the Kings Cross injecting room works and that it is safe for users and the surrounding community. For too long there has been a reluctance to afford this facility and its users with the certainty it requires to provide long-term compassionate, safe and effective services to the community" said Mr Cohen.
"My involvement in this issue goes right back to my membership of the Inquiry into Safe Injecting Rooms in the late 1990s and I am incredibly proud that we have now reached a stage where this vital public health service can move out of its trial status and be provided with the ongoing certainty that will only continue to benefit people struggling with drug addiction as well as the wider community" said Mr Cohen.
"After almost 10 years, the evidence is clear that the Kings Cross injecting room has played an enormous role in saving over 3,000 lives and has not had the negative impact on crime in Kings Cross as initially feared by the injecting room's detractors.
"Published medical literature has conclusively shown us that opioid related overdoses and injuries have significantly declined since the injecting room was opened, and that it has flow-on benefits to the community by lowering demand for ambulance services.
"There is widespread support from medical experts and peak medical bodies for the work done by the Kings Cross injecting room as it is recognised that it is a pragmatic and effective response to the issue of intravenous drug addiction.
"The NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research have reviewed the volume of crime in Kings Cross between 1999 and March 2010 and found that there was "no evidence" that the injecting room has negatively impacted on crime in this area. This applies not just to drug offences, but also to theft, robbery, property crimes.
"I applaud the Government for acknowledging the clear evidence that the Kings Cross injecting room works and that it is safe for users and the surrounding community. For too long there has been a reluctance to afford this facility and its users with the certainty it requires to provide long-term compassionate, safe and effective services to the community" said Mr Cohen.
Government fails to regulate environmental harm - 15 September 2010
Greens MLC Ian Cohen has criticised the NSW Government's management of pollution incidents following the publishing of the Auditor-General's performance audit of the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water.
"The Auditor-General's report on how well the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) are managing pollution incidents in NSW is a scathing indictment of the disregard this Government holds for the environmental impacts of pollution.
"To find out that the Government's regulator in the fight against pollution does not analyse or report on key environmental performance indicators such as how much environmental harm is occurring from pollution incidents, how many pollution incidents are occurring and whether their approach to regulation is actually effective, is mind-boggling.
"When we have a system whereby polluting activities are licensed, it is of utmost necessity that those regulating the licensees know whether or not the level of reported compliance is accurate and if all pollution incidents are in fact being reported. Instead we have a situation where fewer licences are being issued but the number of reports in which licensees are being implicated is increasing.
"Given that about 90% of pollution incidents were most likely from licensed premises; these failings mean that polluters are effectively given free rein to damage our environment in the pursuit of profits.
"Instead of doing their job of monitoring and enforcing pollution mitigation and management, the Government was found to be relying on the public to be their "eyes and ears" with 80% of pollution incidents being reported by members of the community. And somehow they expect the community to be able to do this without adequately communicating its Environment Line phone number.
"I hope that the Government takes the Auditor-General's report for the wake-up call that it is and rely on misleading and indefensible statements to hide the fact that they are simply not doing their job in regulating pollution" said Mr Cohen.
"The Auditor-General's report on how well the Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) are managing pollution incidents in NSW is a scathing indictment of the disregard this Government holds for the environmental impacts of pollution.
"To find out that the Government's regulator in the fight against pollution does not analyse or report on key environmental performance indicators such as how much environmental harm is occurring from pollution incidents, how many pollution incidents are occurring and whether their approach to regulation is actually effective, is mind-boggling.
"When we have a system whereby polluting activities are licensed, it is of utmost necessity that those regulating the licensees know whether or not the level of reported compliance is accurate and if all pollution incidents are in fact being reported. Instead we have a situation where fewer licences are being issued but the number of reports in which licensees are being implicated is increasing.
"Given that about 90% of pollution incidents were most likely from licensed premises; these failings mean that polluters are effectively given free rein to damage our environment in the pursuit of profits.
"Instead of doing their job of monitoring and enforcing pollution mitigation and management, the Government was found to be relying on the public to be their "eyes and ears" with 80% of pollution incidents being reported by members of the community. And somehow they expect the community to be able to do this without adequately communicating its Environment Line phone number.
"I hope that the Government takes the Auditor-General's report for the wake-up call that it is and rely on misleading and indefensible statements to hide the fact that they are simply not doing their job in regulating pollution" said Mr Cohen.
Aboriginal Constitutional Recognition - Congratulations - 8 September 2010
The Greens will be supporting changes to the NSW Constitution that are being introduced to the Parliament today to recognise Aboriginal people as the first people of the State.
"These changes are long overdue and will finally acknowledge the unique place that Aboriginal people have in the history of this State" NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen said today.
"NSW will now join Victoria and Queensland in recognising within their Constitutions that Aboriginal people were the first people of this land.
"I am pleased that the Government listened to the comments that were made during the consultation period and have now agreed on wording that NSW can be proud of.
"The changes to the NSW Constitution will now reflect the spiritual, economic, social and cultural connections that Aboriginal people have to the land and waters of this State.
"This is an important part of building the bridges of reconciliation between the people of NSW and will further strengthen the case for similar changes to be made at a Federal level.
"The Greens have long supported the constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians and have secured a commitment from the new Australian Government that a referendum on this issue will be held within the next three years.
"It is my hope that the acknowledgement of Aboriginal people that we are about to see in the NSW Constitution will soon be reflected across our nation" said Mr Cohen.
"These changes are long overdue and will finally acknowledge the unique place that Aboriginal people have in the history of this State" NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen said today.
"NSW will now join Victoria and Queensland in recognising within their Constitutions that Aboriginal people were the first people of this land.
"I am pleased that the Government listened to the comments that were made during the consultation period and have now agreed on wording that NSW can be proud of.
"The changes to the NSW Constitution will now reflect the spiritual, economic, social and cultural connections that Aboriginal people have to the land and waters of this State.
"This is an important part of building the bridges of reconciliation between the people of NSW and will further strengthen the case for similar changes to be made at a Federal level.
"The Greens have long supported the constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians and have secured a commitment from the new Australian Government that a referendum on this issue will be held within the next three years.
"It is my hope that the acknowledgement of Aboriginal people that we are about to see in the NSW Constitution will soon be reflected across our nation" said Mr Cohen.
Japan fails on human and whale rights - 7 September 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen has called on the Japanese Government to review its support of the corrupt whaling industry following the recent conviction of anti-whaling protestors.
"The conviction of Japanese anti-whaling activists Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato for exposing the corruption within the whaling industry is an indictment of the Japanese Government's support for this inhumane practice" says Mr Cohen.
"Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato found evidence that whale meat that is slaughtered in the name of so-called "scientific research" is in fact being sold on the black market by crew members from the whaling ships.
"Instead of being lauded for their courage in bringing to light such corruption, Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato were treated deplorably during the investigation and have now had convictions brought against them for theft and trespass.
"I find this very troubling as when I met Toru Suzuki last year I was impressed by his integrity and commitment to the campaign against Japan's whaling activities.
"Earlier this year, the UN Human Rights Council found that Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato had been arbitrarily deprived of their liberty by the Japanese Government in response to protesting against whaling activities, a direct contravention of their universal human rights.
"The Japanese Government must be told in no uncertain terms that the mistreatment of citizens, who are expressing their right to protest and hold a Government accountable for its actions, is appalling and needs to stop.
"The evidence presented by Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato confirms that the system of issuing scientific permits for killing whales is merely a way of getting around the international moratorium on commercial whaling and that there is simply no need for the unnecessary and outdate practice of hunting whales.
"I have written to the Japanese Consulate-General to urge the Japanese Government to heed the concerns of the international community over the way in which Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato have been treated and to end the environmentally perverted practice of hunting whales" said Mr Cohen.
"The conviction of Japanese anti-whaling activists Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato for exposing the corruption within the whaling industry is an indictment of the Japanese Government's support for this inhumane practice" says Mr Cohen.
"Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato found evidence that whale meat that is slaughtered in the name of so-called "scientific research" is in fact being sold on the black market by crew members from the whaling ships.
"Instead of being lauded for their courage in bringing to light such corruption, Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato were treated deplorably during the investigation and have now had convictions brought against them for theft and trespass.
"I find this very troubling as when I met Toru Suzuki last year I was impressed by his integrity and commitment to the campaign against Japan's whaling activities.
"Earlier this year, the UN Human Rights Council found that Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato had been arbitrarily deprived of their liberty by the Japanese Government in response to protesting against whaling activities, a direct contravention of their universal human rights.
"The Japanese Government must be told in no uncertain terms that the mistreatment of citizens, who are expressing their right to protest and hold a Government accountable for its actions, is appalling and needs to stop.
"The evidence presented by Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato confirms that the system of issuing scientific permits for killing whales is merely a way of getting around the international moratorium on commercial whaling and that there is simply no need for the unnecessary and outdate practice of hunting whales.
"I have written to the Japanese Consulate-General to urge the Japanese Government to heed the concerns of the international community over the way in which Toru Suzuki and Junichi Sato have been treated and to end the environmentally perverted practice of hunting whales" said Mr Cohen.
Government spins wheels on Repco Rally economics - 31 August 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen has called on the Government to refer all economic data and analysis associated with the 2009 Repco Rally to the Auditor-General for independent review.
"The recent release of a report prepared for the Government by Integrated Marketing Communications Pty Ltd (IMC) displays a clear lack of objectivity, raising serious questions about its accuracy," said Mr Cohen.
"The report uses terminology that is inflammatory and inappropriate for an assessment of such an important matter.
"To repeatedly label local community opposition to the Repco Rally as "zealots" shows the contempt that the Government and IMC holds for the legitimate concerns of local residents and business owners.
"The conclusion that the economic benefits of the 2009 Repco Rally far outweighed the costs is based on submissions from Events NSW and Rally Australia, two organisations that have a vested interest in supporting the decision to go ahead with this event despite a divisive and inadequate planning process.
"All economic data and analysis related to the Repco Rally must be released so that a robust and independent assessment can be made into whether or not NSW really did get a good deal out of this event.
"We know from the Auditor-General's independent review of the V8 Supercars Races that we cannot rely on the Government, or its close associates, to accurately assess the economic benefits to NSW of these types of events.
"Given the V8 Races cost $10 million more and delivered 25% fewer benefits than planned, what assurance is there about the accuracy of the information in the IMC report?
"Until the Auditor-General is able to look at and report on all of the economic information from the 2009 Repco Rally, it is unacceptable that the Government would even consider holding this event in the future," said Mr Cohen.
"The recent release of a report prepared for the Government by Integrated Marketing Communications Pty Ltd (IMC) displays a clear lack of objectivity, raising serious questions about its accuracy," said Mr Cohen.
"The report uses terminology that is inflammatory and inappropriate for an assessment of such an important matter.
"To repeatedly label local community opposition to the Repco Rally as "zealots" shows the contempt that the Government and IMC holds for the legitimate concerns of local residents and business owners.
"The conclusion that the economic benefits of the 2009 Repco Rally far outweighed the costs is based on submissions from Events NSW and Rally Australia, two organisations that have a vested interest in supporting the decision to go ahead with this event despite a divisive and inadequate planning process.
"All economic data and analysis related to the Repco Rally must be released so that a robust and independent assessment can be made into whether or not NSW really did get a good deal out of this event.
"We know from the Auditor-General's independent review of the V8 Supercars Races that we cannot rely on the Government, or its close associates, to accurately assess the economic benefits to NSW of these types of events.
"Given the V8 Races cost $10 million more and delivered 25% fewer benefits than planned, what assurance is there about the accuracy of the information in the IMC report?
"Until the Auditor-General is able to look at and report on all of the economic information from the 2009 Repco Rally, it is unacceptable that the Government would even consider holding this event in the future," said Mr Cohen.
Waste tip risks Jervis Bay National Park's creeks and wetlands - 21 July 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen has told a community rally outside NSW Parliament today that a proposed waste tip adjacent to Jervis Bay National Park and near creeks and wetlands poses unacceptable environmental risks and mustn't be allowed to proceed.
The proposal for a waste tip at Tomerong is due to go to be considered by a Joint Regional Planning Panel and has met with fierce community opposition.
"To locate a tip that has the potential to take lead paints and other hazards near waterways and national parks is pure madness," Mr Cohen told the rally today.
"Materials such as lead, a highly toxic substance to humans, could quickly contaminate waterways after heavy rains and flooding.
"Within a couple of hundred metres from the proposed tip are the upper reaches of two river systems, both of which of course flood.
"If the State Government was serious about waste management it would be prioritising alternative waste transfer stations ahead of tips.
"Other forms of waste this tip will take are construction and demolition waste. This waste should be crushed and processed into materials such as road base, not sent to landfill.
"The risks of contamination are too great and the tip must not be allowed to go ahead at its proposed location.
"Impacts on surrounding communities are also unacceptable such as a massive increase in truck movements through small community towns, noise and odour," said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
The proposal for a waste tip at Tomerong is due to go to be considered by a Joint Regional Planning Panel and has met with fierce community opposition.
"To locate a tip that has the potential to take lead paints and other hazards near waterways and national parks is pure madness," Mr Cohen told the rally today.
"Materials such as lead, a highly toxic substance to humans, could quickly contaminate waterways after heavy rains and flooding.
"Within a couple of hundred metres from the proposed tip are the upper reaches of two river systems, both of which of course flood.
"If the State Government was serious about waste management it would be prioritising alternative waste transfer stations ahead of tips.
"Other forms of waste this tip will take are construction and demolition waste. This waste should be crushed and processed into materials such as road base, not sent to landfill.
"The risks of contamination are too great and the tip must not be allowed to go ahead at its proposed location.
"Impacts on surrounding communities are also unacceptable such as a massive increase in truck movements through small community towns, noise and odour," said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
Sunday, February 13, 2011
NSW Labor supports dismantling our Marine Protected Areas - 24 June 2010
On the last day of NSW Parliament for the Legislative Council, NSW Labor has joined the Shooters and National Party campaign to dismantle our Marine Protected Areas, delivering a significant blow to our iconic coastline environment and regional tourism. Greens MP Ian Cohen is declaring the Labor Party’s moratorium on Marine Protected Areas an absolute betrayal of our coastline.
“I would have thought NSW Labor was already scaping the bottom of the policy barrel after its campaign to introduce inappropriate, large scale commercial development into our National Parks,” says Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“Having watched the NSW Labor Government indicate this morning that it supported the Shooters and National Party campaigns to place a moratorium on marine protected areas, it is clear NSW Labor has hit rock bottom in managing the NSW environment.
“NSW Labor’s support for a moratorium of marine protected areas in the International Year of Biodiversity and in the face of recent independent economic modelling of marine protected areas in Western Australia is simply irrational.”
“NSW Labor is supporting a Bill that will actively prevent the protection and conservation of critically endangered and threatened marine species and ecosystems such as grey nurse sharks and sea turtles. For the last 15 years Labor has professed the need to protect our endangered species and coastal ecosystems in Marine Protected Areas and in one foul swoop the Labor Party has abandoned the science of marine protection.”
“The NSW Greens are committed to protecting our endangered marine species and ecosystems for future generations and will fight up and down the NSW coastline against the Labor and Shooters Party campaign to take marine protection back to the dark ages.”
“I would have thought NSW Labor was already scaping the bottom of the policy barrel after its campaign to introduce inappropriate, large scale commercial development into our National Parks,” says Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“Having watched the NSW Labor Government indicate this morning that it supported the Shooters and National Party campaigns to place a moratorium on marine protected areas, it is clear NSW Labor has hit rock bottom in managing the NSW environment.
“NSW Labor’s support for a moratorium of marine protected areas in the International Year of Biodiversity and in the face of recent independent economic modelling of marine protected areas in Western Australia is simply irrational.”
“NSW Labor is supporting a Bill that will actively prevent the protection and conservation of critically endangered and threatened marine species and ecosystems such as grey nurse sharks and sea turtles. For the last 15 years Labor has professed the need to protect our endangered species and coastal ecosystems in Marine Protected Areas and in one foul swoop the Labor Party has abandoned the science of marine protection.”
“The NSW Greens are committed to protecting our endangered marine species and ecosystems for future generations and will fight up and down the NSW coastline against the Labor and Shooters Party campaign to take marine protection back to the dark ages.”
Inquiry needed to assess impact of a changing climate on NSW’s beaches - 21 June 2010
The Greens will seek to send legislation that will grant property owners the right to build, without development approval, temporary sea walls on beaches as protection against rising sea levels to a Parliamentary Inquiry this week.
“If this Bill goes ahead it will begin the fortification of our coastlines, with rock walls encroaching on to our most treasured beaches in the not-too-distant future,” said NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen.
“The implications of this legislation as well as the issues it’s trying to address are enormous and it mustn’t be rushed through the Parliament. Minister Sartor hasn’t even released guidelines with the Bill.
“The Greens will be seeking to send the Coastal Protection and Other Legislation Bill to a Parliamentary Committee so that the full impacts of climate change and coastal inundation on NSW coastal communities and coastal ecosystems can be investigated. Recommendations can then also be made as to the best whole-of-government response.
“A broader investigation into rising sea levels is urgently needed. The State Government is clearly failing to grasp the severity a changing climate is already having on our coastline.
“Sea level rise and coastal inundation is occurring right now from Kingscliff in Northern NSW to the South Coast of NSW. Our office is being contacted by people who are literally watching the beaches in front of their properties disappear.
“Planning for rising sea levels is one of the toughest things any government anywhere will have to do.
“We need a whole-of-government approach, not one that pits neighbour against neighbour and beachfront dwellers against the rest of the community. Yet Minister Sartor’s preference is to rush a band aid solution through the Parliament by the end of the week.
“The State Government is simply delaying the inevitable – that is implementing a policy of stage, planned retreat for communities affected by rising sea levels.
“The short-term vision of this current State Government is on show once again. This legislation should be called the ‘Coastal Private Property Protection’ Bill due to its prioritisation of private property protection over public beaches,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 02 9230 3305 or 0412 207 043
“If this Bill goes ahead it will begin the fortification of our coastlines, with rock walls encroaching on to our most treasured beaches in the not-too-distant future,” said NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen.
“The implications of this legislation as well as the issues it’s trying to address are enormous and it mustn’t be rushed through the Parliament. Minister Sartor hasn’t even released guidelines with the Bill.
“The Greens will be seeking to send the Coastal Protection and Other Legislation Bill to a Parliamentary Committee so that the full impacts of climate change and coastal inundation on NSW coastal communities and coastal ecosystems can be investigated. Recommendations can then also be made as to the best whole-of-government response.
“A broader investigation into rising sea levels is urgently needed. The State Government is clearly failing to grasp the severity a changing climate is already having on our coastline.
“Sea level rise and coastal inundation is occurring right now from Kingscliff in Northern NSW to the South Coast of NSW. Our office is being contacted by people who are literally watching the beaches in front of their properties disappear.
“Planning for rising sea levels is one of the toughest things any government anywhere will have to do.
“We need a whole-of-government approach, not one that pits neighbour against neighbour and beachfront dwellers against the rest of the community. Yet Minister Sartor’s preference is to rush a band aid solution through the Parliament by the end of the week.
“The State Government is simply delaying the inevitable – that is implementing a policy of stage, planned retreat for communities affected by rising sea levels.
“The short-term vision of this current State Government is on show once again. This legislation should be called the ‘Coastal Private Property Protection’ Bill due to its prioritisation of private property protection over public beaches,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 02 9230 3305 or 0412 207 043
Bill passed to allow elite tourist accommodation and facilities in National Parks - 10 June 2010
Legislation passed late last night by the NSW Upper House will see some of the State’s most iconic national parks subject to commercial tourist facilities for the elite end of the tourist market at the expense of the general public and environment, the NSW Greens said tonight.
“The passing of this legislation with the support of the Opposition threatens the integrity of our National Park estate by allowing areas within the boundaries of National Parks to be developed,” said NSW Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“The Government is keen to adopt the Tourism and Transport Forum’s ‘high yield, low volume’ approach to visitors to National Parks which could see elite tourist resorts built in some of our most precious natural areas.
“This Bill will now make it easier for the public to be excluded from some parts of National Parks with private operators being granted ‘exclusive access’.
‘The Government is sending a clear message to the public about the future enjoyment of some National Parks - if you can’t pay, stay away.
“With commercial development comes associated infrastructure such as powerlines, roads and waste services. These all have an impact on the biodiversity values that National Parks are there to protect.
“This legislation has been driven by the bureaucracy in its effort to meet performance measures pertaining to increased numbers of visitors to our National Parks.
“Allowing elite tourist resorts in National Parks is not the way to get more people to enjoy them. Investing in basic park infrastructure and upgrades and marketing their natural values is.
“More people appreciating the beauty of the State’s National Parks is a great thing, but not if it’s at the expense of the nature with the Parks itself,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
“The passing of this legislation with the support of the Opposition threatens the integrity of our National Park estate by allowing areas within the boundaries of National Parks to be developed,” said NSW Greens MP Ian Cohen.
“The Government is keen to adopt the Tourism and Transport Forum’s ‘high yield, low volume’ approach to visitors to National Parks which could see elite tourist resorts built in some of our most precious natural areas.
“This Bill will now make it easier for the public to be excluded from some parts of National Parks with private operators being granted ‘exclusive access’.
‘The Government is sending a clear message to the public about the future enjoyment of some National Parks - if you can’t pay, stay away.
“With commercial development comes associated infrastructure such as powerlines, roads and waste services. These all have an impact on the biodiversity values that National Parks are there to protect.
“This legislation has been driven by the bureaucracy in its effort to meet performance measures pertaining to increased numbers of visitors to our National Parks.
“Allowing elite tourist resorts in National Parks is not the way to get more people to enjoy them. Investing in basic park infrastructure and upgrades and marketing their natural values is.
“More people appreciating the beauty of the State’s National Parks is a great thing, but not if it’s at the expense of the nature with the Parks itself,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
“US Oil Spill could happen here” Greens say this World Environment Day - 5 June 2010
This World Environment Day (Saturday 5 June) the NSW Greens are seeking a commitment by the NSW Government to rule out the prospect of oil drilling off the NSW coast as reports indicate an increasing commercial interest in the area.
In a speech in the NSW Upper House this week, Greens MLC Ian Cohen warned of increasing potential for oil spills to occur off the NSW Coast due to the heightened interest in offshore oil reserves in the Sydney basin.
“Unfortunately, there really is no cause for celebration this World Environment Day,” said Mr Cohen.
“The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a portend of what’s to come if we continue to prioritise short-term profits over the long-term health of our environment.
“This World Environment Day the Greens are seeking a commitment from the State Government to rule out oil drilling in NSW waters for the long-term health and viability of the marine environment.
The website of Advent Energy, a company that is undertaking offshore drilling, states “the Offshore Sydney Basin is one of the largest remaining unexplored prospects for oil or gas in Australia… Covered by PEP 11, a 200km long, 8,100km2 permit, the offshore Sydney Basin is a significant exploration area… Oil has been recorded from some 55 locations within the onshore basin…. although gas is the initial focus, the possibility of a new oil play offshore cannot be ruled out.”
“Our tourism and fishing industries need to be reassured their businesses and jobs aren’t at risk of a future oil spill.
“The risk of serious and irreversible damage to the marine environment from offshore oil drilling and exploration should be enough to warrant extremely high levels of precaution when it comes to approving such projects, if they are approved at all.
“In an age of peak oil, we should be investing in clean technology solutions and alternatives so that we can transition away from our dependency on oil.
“The Greens will be seeking commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to rule out oil drilling off our coasts completely. Our marine environment is too precious to lose,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
In a speech in the NSW Upper House this week, Greens MLC Ian Cohen warned of increasing potential for oil spills to occur off the NSW Coast due to the heightened interest in offshore oil reserves in the Sydney basin.
“Unfortunately, there really is no cause for celebration this World Environment Day,” said Mr Cohen.
“The oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico is a portend of what’s to come if we continue to prioritise short-term profits over the long-term health of our environment.
“This World Environment Day the Greens are seeking a commitment from the State Government to rule out oil drilling in NSW waters for the long-term health and viability of the marine environment.
The website of Advent Energy, a company that is undertaking offshore drilling, states “the Offshore Sydney Basin is one of the largest remaining unexplored prospects for oil or gas in Australia… Covered by PEP 11, a 200km long, 8,100km2 permit, the offshore Sydney Basin is a significant exploration area… Oil has been recorded from some 55 locations within the onshore basin…. although gas is the initial focus, the possibility of a new oil play offshore cannot be ruled out.”
“Our tourism and fishing industries need to be reassured their businesses and jobs aren’t at risk of a future oil spill.
“The risk of serious and irreversible damage to the marine environment from offshore oil drilling and exploration should be enough to warrant extremely high levels of precaution when it comes to approving such projects, if they are approved at all.
“In an age of peak oil, we should be investing in clean technology solutions and alternatives so that we can transition away from our dependency on oil.
“The Greens will be seeking commitments from both Labor and the Coalition to rule out oil drilling off our coasts completely. Our marine environment is too precious to lose,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
More Threatened Species at Risk from Govt’s Chop n’ Swap Biobanking scheme - 4 June 2010
News the Hills Shire Council is seeking approval to bulldoze sensitive bushland and ‘offset’ it under the State Government’s controversial biobanking scheme highlights the urgent need for a greater scrutiny of the whole process, say the NSW Greens.
"Biobanking is increasingly being exposed as a rort, designed purely to approve controversial developments in environmentally sensitive areas,” NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen said today.
Leaked information indicates the Hills Shire Council will apply to itself, as the consent authority, to develop a piece of land it owns at Withers Road, Kellyville. The land is said to contain bushland with numerous threatened species, including Cumberland Plain Woodland, federally listed as ‘at immediate risk of extinction’.
"The environmental consultant’s report I have seen indicates there are almost certainly enough threatened species on this site to raise a 'red flag' under biobanking.
“A red flag means the loss of biodiversity can't be ‘offset’ because its conservation value is too high and therefore the development can't go ahead.
“What is happening is exactly what we were afraid of. Developers are using all sorts of spurious means to avoid these ‘red flags’.
“Some developers are deliberately engaging particular environmental consultants who may be more likely to downplay the presence of threatened species in their environmental assessments of a site.
“An accreditation system needs to be urgently introduced to ensure all environmental consultants are thoroughly qualified and independent.
“Biobanking is a rort that lets developers get away with destroying threatened species. It’s as simple as that,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
"Biobanking is increasingly being exposed as a rort, designed purely to approve controversial developments in environmentally sensitive areas,” NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen said today.
Leaked information indicates the Hills Shire Council will apply to itself, as the consent authority, to develop a piece of land it owns at Withers Road, Kellyville. The land is said to contain bushland with numerous threatened species, including Cumberland Plain Woodland, federally listed as ‘at immediate risk of extinction’.
"The environmental consultant’s report I have seen indicates there are almost certainly enough threatened species on this site to raise a 'red flag' under biobanking.
“A red flag means the loss of biodiversity can't be ‘offset’ because its conservation value is too high and therefore the development can't go ahead.
“What is happening is exactly what we were afraid of. Developers are using all sorts of spurious means to avoid these ‘red flags’.
“Some developers are deliberately engaging particular environmental consultants who may be more likely to downplay the presence of threatened species in their environmental assessments of a site.
“An accreditation system needs to be urgently introduced to ensure all environmental consultants are thoroughly qualified and independent.
“Biobanking is a rort that lets developers get away with destroying threatened species. It’s as simple as that,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
Greens applaud Red Gum National Park announcement - 19 May 2010
NSW Greens MLC Ian Cohen has applauded the NSW government’s decisive action today to declare the Millewa State Forest a National Park with a rapid cessation to logging activity in the area.
“This is a significant environmental announcement by Premier Keneally and Minister Sartor and I applaud them both for taking decisive action to protect these forests,” said Mr Cohen today.
“Minister Sartor has worked constructively and cooperatively with me throughout this entire process.
“This is a win for the environment, the yorta yorta people and the conservationists who have dedicated countless hours to see this area conserved. It’s also a win for the timber workers and the communities who will be affected.
“Until now only 1.8% of River Red Gums Forests have been protected in reserves. Conserving the Millewa Forest as National Park is a significant addition to the State’s national park estates.
“The central finding of the NRC Report is that the river red gum forests are in decline due to river regulation, over-allocation of water and drought.
“We hope that this decision today will ensure there is healthy and thriving river red gum ecosystems for future generations to enjoy,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043 / Ian Cohen: 0409 989 466
“This is a significant environmental announcement by Premier Keneally and Minister Sartor and I applaud them both for taking decisive action to protect these forests,” said Mr Cohen today.
“Minister Sartor has worked constructively and cooperatively with me throughout this entire process.
“This is a win for the environment, the yorta yorta people and the conservationists who have dedicated countless hours to see this area conserved. It’s also a win for the timber workers and the communities who will be affected.
“Until now only 1.8% of River Red Gums Forests have been protected in reserves. Conserving the Millewa Forest as National Park is a significant addition to the State’s national park estates.
“The central finding of the NRC Report is that the river red gum forests are in decline due to river regulation, over-allocation of water and drought.
“We hope that this decision today will ensure there is healthy and thriving river red gum ecosystems for future generations to enjoy,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043 / Ian Cohen: 0409 989 466
Recognition and Rights of Carers still a long way to go - 18 May 2010
The recently passed Carer's Recognition Bill, while acknowledging the importance of the 750,000 carers in NSW fell short of giving carers the necessary rights to service they require to enhance their quality of life, the NSW Greens told a summit for carers held at NSW Parliament House.
“The Government’s Bill was a small first step for NSW to recognise carers, but must be followed up by a scheme such as a National Disability Insurance Scheme,” said Ian Cohen, Greens MLC today.
“The Carers Recognition Bill, which passed Parliament last week highlighted the fact that carers deliver massive savings to our economy and society - to the tune of $10 billion each year.
“However we are still confronted with the fact there are a significant number of people caring for parents and other family members who are losing their right to a normal life and shouldering tremendous responsibilities all at little or no cost to the taxpayers of NSW.
“If the people for whom family-carers provide support received timely and appropriate services it follows that the stress and distress of family-carers would be greatly diminished.
”For decades leadership on the issues of family-carers and the people for whom they care has created a very large problem only because it was not addressed when it was a small one.
“Sadly, it is not uncommon for children to be carers for a relative, often having to take time off school to deal with family issues.
“It is unacceptable that young people in our society are foregoing their normal childhood to act as carers. The role of young people as carers must be addressed to enable them to remain with their family and to access a normal, healthy childhood.
“Other issues raised at today’s conference included the problems experienced by carers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, carers who do not recognise themselves as carers, carers with mental and physical problems and widows and single mothers caring for disabled children.
“We also need to promote the concept of voluntary caring where people have the right to put up their hands and say they are not capable of further voluntary caring. Carers are suffering physically debilitating conditions during a lifetime of care effort.
“A National Disability Insurance Scheme would see great advancements for people with disabilities and carers alike, allowing them to achieve a more fulfilling life. We also must allow for other members of the community to share the responsibility to care for the most vulnerable in our society,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
“The Government’s Bill was a small first step for NSW to recognise carers, but must be followed up by a scheme such as a National Disability Insurance Scheme,” said Ian Cohen, Greens MLC today.
“The Carers Recognition Bill, which passed Parliament last week highlighted the fact that carers deliver massive savings to our economy and society - to the tune of $10 billion each year.
“However we are still confronted with the fact there are a significant number of people caring for parents and other family members who are losing their right to a normal life and shouldering tremendous responsibilities all at little or no cost to the taxpayers of NSW.
“If the people for whom family-carers provide support received timely and appropriate services it follows that the stress and distress of family-carers would be greatly diminished.
”For decades leadership on the issues of family-carers and the people for whom they care has created a very large problem only because it was not addressed when it was a small one.
“Sadly, it is not uncommon for children to be carers for a relative, often having to take time off school to deal with family issues.
“It is unacceptable that young people in our society are foregoing their normal childhood to act as carers. The role of young people as carers must be addressed to enable them to remain with their family and to access a normal, healthy childhood.
“Other issues raised at today’s conference included the problems experienced by carers from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, carers who do not recognise themselves as carers, carers with mental and physical problems and widows and single mothers caring for disabled children.
“We also need to promote the concept of voluntary caring where people have the right to put up their hands and say they are not capable of further voluntary caring. Carers are suffering physically debilitating conditions during a lifetime of care effort.
“A National Disability Insurance Scheme would see great advancements for people with disabilities and carers alike, allowing them to achieve a more fulfilling life. We also must allow for other members of the community to share the responsibility to care for the most vulnerable in our society,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
Government’s biobanking scheme could send some species to the brink - 17 May 2010
The first ‘land swap’ which has taken place today under the Government’s controversial Biobanking scheme could signal the local extinction of some threatened plant and animal species, the NSW Greens said today.
“Rather than Biobanking being the environmental success story the Environment Minister Frank Sartor depicts it as, it signals the end for some vital bushland and habitat,” said Ian Cohen, NSW Greens MLC today.
“The site conserved today in Camden is at the expense of some remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland, an endangered ecological community which will now be destroyed.
“Biobanking is a backward step for threatened species conservation in NSW because it allows land of significant ecological value to be destroyed if land of supposed ‘equal value’ is protected elsewhere.
“Most of the land the Government claims they will be conserving under Biobanking is either already earmarked for protection or unsuitable to be developed.
“Biobanking is essentially greenwashing some development, while being a backward step for conservation.
“The biobanking scheme can allow a developer to develop in an area that has a listed endangered ecological community by purchasing credits to protect a site elsewhere.
“At present NSW has 957 species listed as threatened including 91 ecological communities and this number looks set to increase. It beggers belief that the NSW Government can now trade these species and ecological communities off for development.
“The fundamental principle behind native plant and animal species being listed as threatened is so they can be conserved and protected. Apparently not any longer.
“The only possible outcome under Biobanking is the continued loss of bushland and an increase in extinction rates,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
“Rather than Biobanking being the environmental success story the Environment Minister Frank Sartor depicts it as, it signals the end for some vital bushland and habitat,” said Ian Cohen, NSW Greens MLC today.
“The site conserved today in Camden is at the expense of some remnant Cumberland Plain Woodland, an endangered ecological community which will now be destroyed.
“Biobanking is a backward step for threatened species conservation in NSW because it allows land of significant ecological value to be destroyed if land of supposed ‘equal value’ is protected elsewhere.
“Most of the land the Government claims they will be conserving under Biobanking is either already earmarked for protection or unsuitable to be developed.
“Biobanking is essentially greenwashing some development, while being a backward step for conservation.
“The biobanking scheme can allow a developer to develop in an area that has a listed endangered ecological community by purchasing credits to protect a site elsewhere.
“At present NSW has 957 species listed as threatened including 91 ecological communities and this number looks set to increase. It beggers belief that the NSW Government can now trade these species and ecological communities off for development.
“The fundamental principle behind native plant and animal species being listed as threatened is so they can be conserved and protected. Apparently not any longer.
“The only possible outcome under Biobanking is the continued loss of bushland and an increase in extinction rates,” said Mr Cohen.
Further Information: Cate Faehrmann 0412 207 043
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