PORT BOTANY COMMISSION OF INQUIRY MUST CONSIDER ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

Monday, 07 June 2004 10:00

TEC Director Jeff Angel said, "The proposed Port Botany expansion has the potential to cause significant environmental impacts, including damage to migratory bird habitat and increased risk of chemical spills. We welcome the decision to examine an alternative proposal by P&O, however, other options such as upgrading facilities at Newcastle and Port Kembla should also be considered"

The proposed expansion of container facilities at Port Botany has sparked concern from local residents and environment groups over the possible environmental impacts. There have been strong calls for facilities at Newcastle and Port Kembla to be upgraded as an alternative to expansion at Port Botany. A NSW Parliamentary Committee recommend that the COI consider all viable alternatives.

At the COI's first day of sittings the Government expanded the COI's terms of reference to include consideration of potentially feasible alternatives, however specific mention was mode only of the P&O proposal.

"Decisions made on the expansion of container facilities will have major environmental and economic implications. It is vital that the government and community are provided with a thorough and objective analysis of the costs and benefits of all alternative proposals", Mr Angel said.