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Tebbutt ignores health risks of Upper Hunter coal mining
Monday 12 April 2010
Greens MP and health spokesperson Lee Rhiannon says the Health Minister Carmel Tebbutt must immediately respond to calls to initiate an independent health study into the health risks of coal mining to residents living in the Upper Hunter.
"Health study denied despite cancer cluster", Sydney Morning Herald, page 2.
"It is a kick in the teeth for local families that Health Minister Carmel Tebbutt ignoring the growing evidence of health problems in adults and children living in Upper Hunter communities," Ms Rhiannon said.
"The Health Minister cannot afford to turn a blind eye to the health risks of coal mining and power generators for Hunter residents, following news of a possible cancer cluster in Singleton and lower than average lung function in school children.
"Ms Tebbutt's belittling of Local GP Tuan Au's findings that one in six students at a Singleton school had a lower lung capacity is insulting to families watching their children's health decline.
"The NSW government may face future liability for its inaction in failing to respond to evidence of these health impacts. Premier Kristina Keneally must not forget the multi-million dollar payouts which are now dogging the asbestos industry.
"The cumulative impacts of coal mining are coming home to roost, evidenced by rising incidences of cancer and respiratory disease in the Upper Hunter region.
"It's unethical for the NSW government to accept the economic boost provided by the rapidly expanding coal industry while refusing to fund an independent health study and air quality monitoring networks.
"Coal dust creates fine and ultra fine particles have been linked to respiratory illnesses and other diseases.
"I have been seeking further information from the government about the progress of its new Air Quality Monitoring Network, which we are concerned is simply window dressing.
"The government's decision to co-partner with the coal and power industries to establish fourteen air quality monitoring stations is akin to putting the wolf in charge of the hen house.
"Independence is critical if there is to be any credible assessment of health impacts of pollution stemming from mining in the Upper Hunter," Ms Rhiannon said.
For more information: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568
Visit Lee's No New Coal mining campaign site.
