[Greens-Media] Greens Call for Snowy Sell-Off to be Suspended

[Christopher Holley]

Greens MP Sylvia Hale has called on the government to suspend its
proposed sell-off of Snowy Hydro until the parliamentary inquiry into
the sale has been completed and its report made public.

The NSW Upper House voted last night to set up a select committee to
inquire into all aspects of the proposed privatisation. Ms Hale will be
a member of the committee. Its first term of reference is to determine
if the sale is in the public interest. 

"The Premier's statement that the government will proceed with the
sell-off while the inquiry is taking place is irresponsible and shows
astounding arrogance," said Ms Hale.

"The Premier is showing utter disregard for the parliament and the
people."

"He is saying that even if it is found that the sell-off is not in
the public interest he will proceed to sell the Snowy anyway. This
exposes the government's agenda for all to see." 

"The sale was never about the public interest; the government just
sees it as a chance to find a billion dollars to put into a political
vote-buying fund that it can splash around marginal seats in the lead up
to the election." 

"I urge anyone with an interest in the Snowy and its future to make a
submission to the inquiry," said Ms Hale.

Further information: Chris Holley 0437 779 546