10 February 2006

Happy Valley Activists make false claim

Three “Happy Valley” protesters facing charges in the Christchurch District Court have made a false claim that coal producer, Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd, is seeking reparations of US$150,000 from them. (Media Release 9/02/06: “Solid Energy to seek costs of US$150,000 from Happy Valley Activists)

The protesters face charges in the District Court relating to an incident in August last year. Frances Mountier and Daniel Rae chained themselves to a Christchurch railway track for several hours, while Raoni Hammer sat in a tree with ropes tied to the track below. A coal train travelling to Lyttelton was delayed and the following train had to be cancelled.

In a statement to police on 23 August 2005, Solid Energy said: “The protestors’ actions meant Solid Energy missed the opportunity to move some 1,500 tonnes of coal to the Port of Lyttelton. At current prices Solid Energy is averaging $100 per tonne in US dollars. The protesters caused Solid Energy to lose around US$150,000 in revenue.”

Solid Energy asked for its statement to be brought to the Court’s attention. Solid Energy has not sought to recover the lost revenue of US$150,000 from the protesters.

ENDS

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