Coalition quashes debate on the future of our forests

The Coalition has blocked a move by the Greens to establish an open and robust inquiry into the future of Australian forests and the forest industry.

“Here we had an opportunity for an open examination of how our forests should be managed for future generations, but the Liberals and Nationals have shown they are determined to hold that back,” said the Australian Greens spokesperson for forests Senator Janet Rice.

“Regional Forest Agreements were meant to strike a balance between supporting industry and protecting the environment, but instead have overseen the destruction of our native forests and put some of our most precious animals at risk.

“As these twenty year agreements begin to expire, we need to take a serious look at the way they have operated and have a proper examination of 21st century forest management options, not simply roll them over.

“Meanwhile, taxpayers continue to pay millions to prop up native forest logging, putting our water catchments at risk and putting species such the Leadbeater’s Possum at risk of extinction.”
Australian Greens spokesperson for forests Senator Janet Rice.