Public forum: A future without coal?

Christchurch, Tuesday 14thAugust.
Media Advisory: Save Happy Valley Christchurch
14/08/07
FOR IMMEDIATE USE

Save Happy Valley Christchurch, in conjunction with Coal Action Network, are hosting a public forum tonight featuring Green Party co-leader Jeanette Fitzsimons, renowned Antarctic and climate change scientist Professor Peter Barrett and a speaker on the local impacts of coal mining. The forum will be held in the William Sutton Room, Arts Centre, Christchurch, and starts at 7pm.

The AUSIMM (Australian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy) is holding a conference in Christchurch from the 13-15th. "Many of the mining corporations which are the focus of criticism from environment groups are expected to attend. SHV and CAN together with experts in the field of sustainability and climate change will consider the many exciting alternatives," said Frances Mountier, Save Happy Valley Coalition spokesperson.

"The Labour Government is concerningly pro-mining now; indeed environmental protection is weakening. Often the compliance of DOC, Ministers and Departments leads to corporate desecration of our precious ecosystems.

"While the mining companies of New Zealand meet to plan the expansion of their ecologically destructive, climate changing and polluting industry into some of the most beautiful parts of Aotearoa, we will be looking at creating a sustainable future that does not rely on desecrating our natural environment," said Ms Mountier.

Save Happy Valley will also host a community dinner on Thursday 16th August, from 6.30pm at the Media Club, featuring SHV Coalition speakers and stunning footage of Happy Valley.

//ENDS

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