Opportunity to attend CSG inquiry

THE NSW Parliamentary inquiry into coal-seam gas will this month hold its first hearing into the burgeoning industry in Lismore.

Keerong Gas Squad member Ian Gaillard said his group had already made a written submission, but hoped to address the General Purpose Standing Committee, which is conducting the Inquiry, at thehearing.

Given the opportunity to speak, Mr Gaillard said he would focus on the constitutional protection of water and the use of the precautionary principle in maters relating to the environment.

"We can't run this experiment without a scientific understanding of the long-term consequences of this industry," he said.

"The scale and the size of the current gas rush should be of concern to all Northern Rivers residents."

There will be the opportunity for about eight individuals or representatives of groups to be sworn in to give evidence to the committee.

They will be permitted to make an opening statement and will then be asked questions by its members.

The committee is also expected to meet with residents in Lynchs Creek before the hearing.

The committee is chaired by the Shooters and Fishers Party MLC Robert Brown.

A final report by the inquiry is due before April 6, 2012.

The hearing will be held on Wednesday, September 21, 1.30pm to 6.30pm at the House with No Steps, 253 Wardell Road, Alstonville.

COAL-SEAM GAS INQUIRY WILL LOOK INTO:

• Effect on ground and surface water systems
• Effects related to the use of chemicals
• Effects related to hydraulic fracturing
• Effect on Crown Lands including travelling stock routes and State forests
• Nature and effectiveness of remediation required under the Act
• Effect on greenhouse gas and other emissions
• Relative air quality and environmental impacts compared to alternative fossil fuels
• Legal rights of property owners and property values
• Food security and agricultural activity
• Regional development, investment and employment, and State competitiveness
• Royalties payable to the State
• Local Government including provision of local/regional infrastructure and local planning control mechanisms