Greens MLC Robin Chapple today slammed Chevron’s plans to expand its massive Gorgon LNG project as a corporate hoodwink of the Barnett Government.
“This is what companies do when they want to push an environmentally unacceptable project,” Mr. Chapple said.
“They tell a government, “We will only develop part A, B, and C of a project” and then when they are entrenched in the development, go ahead with parts D, E, and F.”“
In the case of the Barnett government, it is so gas-mad that it invariably, perhaps even knowingly allows itself to be led up the garden path by the proponent.”
Mr. Chapple also said he feared further degradation of the once-pristine ecology of Barrow Island would be inevitable with such a massive expansion.
“Already we have seen the failed resettlement of endangered species – which were eaten by feral animals once moved onshore from Barrow -, the impact of vessels sinking and colliding with reefs, and the introduction of pest species such as rats and buffel grass.”
“In addition there have been an unacceptable number of critical environmental quarantine breaches with the current project and a poor DEC presence on the island.”
“Picture Barrow Island once four LNG trains are put in place – it will be a shadow of its former self.”
“Shame on Chevron for pulling this stunt, and shame on the Barnett Government for its blithe approach to environmental regulation.”
"The Kimberley should be mindful of this creeping corporate expansion when considering development at James Price Point."
For more information please contact Robin Chapple on 0409 379 263 or 9486 8255
