Win for the Kimberley, loss for the 'Territory Lifestyle'

The Australian Greens today responded to the news that Inpex are now hoping to build a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant in Darwin with a mix of both relief and significant concern.
 
"I'm relieved that the Kimberley has, for the moment, had a reprieve - but ultimately still concerned about the environmental and social impacts of this proposed gas plant in Darwin," said Australian Greens Senator Rachel Siewert.
 
"Darwin harbour is a beautiful but fragile ecosystem that has already been degraded by the first Conoco Phillips LNG plant, the huge white tanks of which spoil the once pristine views from many areas."
 
"The natural beauty of this harbour, alongside the great fishing, is central to the famous 'Territory Lifestyle'. Sadly, in its race to develop the north, it appears that the Northern Territory Labor Government has decided to let that lifestyle slip away."
 
"Darwin is already suffering from a very serious shortage of housing and skilled labour. A plant of this scale will add further pressure, which is already causing deep concern amongst the local community," said Senator Siewert.
 
"The Greens will seek to ensure that the environmental impact assessment process, which will be conducted by both the Northern Territory and Commonwealth Governments, receives the highest levels of scrutiny," she concluded.
 
For more information or media enquiries please call Tim Norton on 0418
401 180
senator.siewert@aph.gov.au  |  www.rachelsiewert.org.au  | www.greensmps.org.au