[Greens-Media] Gunns action threatens free speech

[Edwards, Jon (Sen K. Nettle)]

15.12.04

Gunns action threatens free speech

Yesterday, Gunns Pty Ltd served writs on 20 individuals and
organisations, including the Wilderness Society, Doctors for Forests,
the Huon Valley Environment Centre, Peg Putt MHA and Senator Bob Brown.
The writs seek over $6 million in damages.

Speaking at a protest vigil held in Sydney today in solidarity with the
twenty people and organisations targeted by Gunns attack on free speech
Senator Nettle said,

"I will stand by the activists who have stood up for the Tasmanian
forests. Unable to win the debate over the forests Gunns is now pursuing
legal action against its critics. This is an attack on free speech and
democracy.

"This case is putting free speech on trial. If Gunns are successful in
getting injunctions against protesters then they will have effectively
made political protest against corporations illegal.

"This suit is clearly intended to bully into silence politicians,
protesters, and anyone attempting to exercise their democratic right to
speak out.  

"The Greens will not be silenced by Gunns or any other company from
identifying environmentally damaging practices and speaking out to
protect our ecological heritage."

Vigils also held in Hobart, Launceston, and Adelaide today.

More information on Sydney protest: Damien Lawson 0419 253 342



JON
0428 213 146