Lock the Gate Alliance has welcomed action by the NSW Government, who this week threatened to suspend Wollongong Coal mining operations, and called for action to cancel the mining licences permanently because the company is not fit to operate.
The NSW Government has taken the action this week due to the failure of Wollongong Coal to pay their bills - the latest in a long line of infringements.
On 2 February, Wollongong Coal was issued with a warning from the Department of Planning & Environment’s Resources Regulator, proposing to suspend the companies operations at both the Russell Vale and Wongawilli collieries.
The decision relates to the failure by Wollongong Coal to pay various rents and levies to the NSW Government. The company has until the 16th February to respond.
Lock the Gate spokesperson, Nic Clyde, said:
“Wollongong Coal is risking our water supply with their dangerous mines in key water catchment areas, and also robbing the public purse by their failure to pay their bills.
“In the interests of Illawarra residents, Sydney’s drinking water supply and workforce safety, the licences of this unfit company must be permanently cancelled.
“It's heartening to see action this week against this rogue company by the Government, but the risk it poses to Sydney's drinking water catchment is too great for half measures. Its licences must be cancelled,” said Nic Clyde.
