2020-05-27
The Victorian Greens have called on Premier Andrews to immediately bring forward the state’s transition out of native forest logging, following today’s Federal Court ruling that VicForests have not been complying with the rules to protect our threatened species.
The Court ruled that logging in Victoria is significantly threatening the endangered Greater Glider and Leadbeater’s Possum.
Victorian Greens Deputy Leader Ellen Sandell welcomed the Federal Court ruling and said it was a clear sign that it was time to put an immediate end to native forest logging to protect our endangered creatures and ecosystems.
An independent costing obtained by the Greens earlier this year found that the Victorian Government would save $191.9 million dollars if it stopped native forest logging now, rather than continuing for ten years, as is the Labor Government's plan.
The Government could fast-track the $120 million industry transition fund for logging workers, and still save $191.9 million.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Leader of the Victorian Greens, Ellen Sandell MP:
"The Court's ruling shows that the Victorian Government is clearly breaking the rules and significantly damaging our endangered species.
“Our environment and animals have taken a real battering with the summer's fires, and can't take any more.
“Premier Andrews must immediately stop logging in Victoria's native forests. The good news is: this will also save $191 million which could be spend on coronavirus recovery.”