Michael Stedman Mercury
THE State Government has given Gunns Ltd until November 30 to begin construction of its $2 billion pulp mill. Premier David Bartlett said the date would be a “line in the sand” after which the government would not consider future support for the project. “The decision by Cabinet today means all Tasmanians will know before Christmas whether this pulp mill is going ahead or not,” Mr Bartlett said. “It ensures there will finally be an end date so the community can move forward one way or the other.” Gunns’ $15 million sovereign risk agreement expires today. The company requested an extension a fortnight ago, which Mr Bartlett said would have effectively given Gunns until May 31 next year to start construction of the project. Mr Bartlett met with Gunns chairman John Gay late last week. Mr Gay gave no assurances that the project had secured finance. Read more here
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Earlier: Mill: They’ll get what they want …
