Press release – 12 May, 2015Brisbane May 13, 2015 – Greenpeace is calling on the Federal Government to confirm that taxpayer money will not be spent on coal industry projects as part of the Northern Australia Infrastructure fund.Following Tuesday’s Federal budget announcement of cheap loans for ports, pipelines, power and water infrastructure projects, Greenpeace is demanding the government come clean on what the money will be used for, and to rule out using taxpayer money for any coal industry projects that will harm the Great Barrier Reef.
“If the proposed power stations, rail lines and coal ports for the Galilee Basin proceed, they will be disastrous for the health of the Reef,” Greenpeace Reef campaigner Shani Tager said.
“These loans could be a kick in the teeth for anyone concerned about the future of the Great Barrier Reef and the global climate. No taxpayer money should be used to fund coal ports or coal industry expansions. Australians deserve better,” Tager added.
“At a time when 11 international banks have ruled out funding Galilee Basin coal projects, the Australian government must not prop up a dying industry that will harm the Reef. Our money would be better used to help fund a transition to renewable energy.”
Contact:
Elsa Evers (+61) 438 204 041, Shani Tager (+61) 427 914 070