Federal Environment Minister Tony Burke has failed to comply with a legal request for a Statement of reasons pursuant to Section 13 of the Administrative Decisions (Judicial Review) Act 1977.
Tarkine National Coalition had formally sought statement of reasons relating to the EPBC approvals for the Nelson Bay River mine.
Under the Act, upon request the Minister must provide a statement of reasons within 28 days of the request being made. This period expired on 18th February.
The TNC has instructed solicitors to write again to the Minister to alert him to his legal obligation and again request the statement of reasons.
“There are serious concerns with the Minister’s complete disregard for the legal obligations of his portfolio”, said Tarkine National Coalition Campaign Coordinator, Scott Jordan.
“This combined with his inability to tell the truth leaves us with absolutely no confidence in this Minister”.
“The Minister made comment last night on ABC’s Lateline that the current Tasmanian Forest Agreement process would protect the Tarkine. The reserves proposed in this agreement would allow for new mining and exploration activity, a fact the Minister is aware of.”
“He has kowtowed to the mining bosses and now wants to paint himself in a better light. Unfortunately the fact speak contrary to the Minister’s statements.
Mr Jordan congratulated and thanked Australian Greens Senator Christine Milne for raising the plight of the Tarkine in her National Press Club address yesterday.
“Senator Milne has hit the nail on the head. Tony Burke is working against the public interest and for the mining bosses”.
Scott Jordan, Campaign Coordinator, Tarkine National Coalition,
