2023-09-13
Despite 2023 experiencing the hottest month on record and dire predictions for an early start to bushfire season in Australia, the Minister for Environment Tanya Plibersek today confirmed in Question Time that she would continue to approve new coal and gas projects.
Today in Question Time, Greens Leader, Adam Bandt, asked the Environment Minister:
“Will you stop approving new coal and gas projects?”
The Environment Minister’s response started:
“No.”
Lines attributable to Adam Bandt MP, Leader of the Australian Greens:
“When asked if she would stop approving new coal and gas mines, Tanya Plibersek said ‘No’,” Mr Bandt said.
“In the middle of a climate crisis, Labor backs more coal and gas.
“Young people are begging Tanya Plibersek to stop opening new coal and gas, so they can have a safer climate future. Her answer? “No”.
“Pacific Island leaders are pleading with Labor to stop opening new coal and gas, so that future generations won’t become climate refugees, fleeing island nations that risk disappearing. Tanya Plibersek’s response to them? “No”.
“Scientists and experts have been telling the government to stop opening new coal and gas so we can meet climate targets. Tanya Plibersek has told them “No”.
“First Nations people have been urging the Environment Minister to stop backing new coal and gas projects that are destroying tens of thousands of years of their heritage. Tanya Plibersek’s answer: “No”.
“Farmers and environmentalists have been demanding Tanya Plibersek stop opening new coal and gas, as wide parts of the country face turning into desert this century. Tanya Plibersek has hit back, “No”.
“Tanya Plibersek’s “No” is a kick in the guts of everyone who hoped Labor might be different to the Coalition on new coal and gas mines.”