[Greens-Media] MEDIA ALERT - Greens MP Lee Rhiannon joins protest against RTA Kangaroo Valley tree removal

[Lee Rhiannon]

Media Alert
22 July 2007


Greens MP Lee Rhiannon joins protest against RTA Kangaroo Valley tree
removal 

What: 	Demonstration organised by Moss Vale Road Action Group (RAG) to
protest the RTA commencing to remove 97 trees along the National Trust
listed tourist drive of Moss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley. 
Where: 	Assembling at junction of Moss Vale Rd and Walkers
Lane.
Who: 	Greens MP Lee Rhiannon will speak at the action. 
When: 	From 8am, Monday 23 July 2007. 

Greens MP and spokesperson for South-East NSW Lee Rhiannon said:

"The RTA's attempt to remove these magnificent stands of trees along
Moss Vale Road is indicative of the Iemma government's shabby
environmental credentials.

"I have written to Minister Roozendaal asking that he reverse the
decision to remove trees and instead investigate other options to
improve safety.

"It is disappointing reflection on the state of democracy in NSW that
the Roads Minister Eric Roozendaal, Environment Minister Phil Koperberg
and local member and Tourism Minister Matt Brown have failed to respond
to RAG's requests for intervention.  

"The protest illustrates the passion residents have for trees in their
local environment and concerns about the impact the trees' removal will
have on local tourism.

*The Greens consider road safety a top priority and on dangerous
stretches we need to consider significantly lowering the speed limit. 

*If the RTA cuts down these glorious trees they are also destroying
the homes of numerous birds and marsupials. Local biodiversity will
suffer if the chainsaws are turned on. 

"We are concerned that the Review of Environmental Factors failed to
adequately assess the impact of this action on two threatened species
* the Gang-gang Cockatoo and the Powerful Owl.

"Big trees do the best job of combating global warming and capturing
stormwater. 

*Internationally researchers are quantifying the significant economic
value local trees can provide, for example in attracting people to come
and stay longer at local shopping areas.

"I congratulate the community for working to protect the trees and I
look forward to joining them in opposing the RTA's plans.

More information - Lee Rhiannon: 9230 3551, 0427 861 568, Elizabeth
George, RAG and Kangaroo Valley Community Association, 4465 1010. Photos
available on request