Call for mining and health inquiry

Greens MP and mining spokesperson Lee Rhiannon has called on the NSW government to hold an independent inquiry into the health impacts of the coal industry on people living in the Hunter region, and for the rules that mines operate under to be enforced. (SMH, pages 3 and 9, http://tinyurl.com/yaatqo7)

"Coal companies and the NSW government have been reckless with people's health and the consequences can no longer be ignored," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The government must change its ways so it acts as the defender of public health rather than an agent working to boost the profits of the coal industry.

"The Hunter is exposed to unacceptable levels of air pollution.

"An inquiry is urgently needed to help ensure the health of local communities is not damaged when coal companies break the rules they are suppose to operate under.

"The Greens have received many complaints from locals about coal companies continuing to mine on windy days.

"The result is toxic dust clouds settling over their communities and when they complain it is rare for a government inspector to even turn up and prosecutions are unheard of.

"The government must re-establish a Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water office in the region to monitor, investigate and prosecute offences.

"When the government responds to the mounting community concerns about the health impacts of mining they need to stop taking half measures to try an appease the coal industry.

"After years of pressure 14 air monitoring stations are to be set up in the Hunter but only three will test for the dangerous small particles and none will test for the majority of chemicals found in the mining haze that locals have to live with.

"This region provides enormous wealth to the state and the country and the local communities deserve a commitment that they can live in a clean, healthy environment.

"Research conducted by the Greens of government data shows mining companies commonly breach license conditions and are rarely subject to infringement notices or prosecution.

"For too long Labor and the Coalition have allowed the coal industry to ignore legitimate concerns about the health impacts of mining," Ms Rhiannon said.

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