THE Camden Haven Anti-Fracking Group (CHAFG) has welcomed a government proposal to implement a two kilometre coal seam gas mining buffer zone for residential areas.
However, spokesperson Michelle Lopert says the draft legislation contains some alarming elements.
“It’s great that they are finally taking farmers’ and residents’ concerns into consideration and creating mining exclusion zones but then they undo it all by giving councils the power to override the exclusion zone legislation,” Ms Lopert said.
“That defeats the purpose of the legislation. This huge loophole allows councils to succumb to pressure from mining interests.
“A local council that is struggling financially would be susceptible to a mining industry’s offer of assistance in return for the council exempting exclusion zone areas.
“So, the legislation looks good on the surface, but leaves a wide open back door that allows ‘business as usual’ should councils comply with industry demands.”
CHAFG also questions the narrow definition of ‘agricultural land’, or what the legislation calls ‘critical industry clusters’.
“So far, critical industry clusters only covers vineyards and horse studs,” Ms Lopert said.
“The legislation doesn’t protect other forms of agricultural and residential land.
“Rural residential lots and small villages are not covered in the legislation, leaving too much discretion with councils and ministers as to whether these areas will be protected.
“But these are not our only concerns. The legislation fails to protect water catchment areas and this is a major omission. Allowing mining to go ahead in the Upper Manning and Gloucester region is a prime example of this and (Premier) Barry O’Farrell did promise to protect these critical areas prior to the 2011 election.
“The legislation fails to mention other forms of unconventional gas such as tight sands and shale gas. These pose similar risks as coal seam gas.
“Overall, urban areas are better protected, but farmers and small rural communities are still at risk. The legislation needs tightening up. In view of this, CHAFG sent a submission to the government with our concerns.”
