[Greens-Media] Greens push Premier to commit to protecting Chittering Valley

[Richards, Kirsten]

Greens MLC for East Metro Alison Xamon has called on Premier Colin Barnett to protect Chittering Valley from mining with legislation similar to the Swan Valley Planning Act. 
 
In parliament Ms Xamon asked Mr Barnett, in his capacity as State Development Minister, if he would commit to protecting Chittering Valley after he said he would consider protective legislation for Margaret River. 
 
Ms Xamon, a long-time advocate of responsible environmental regulation, asked the Premier if he acknowledged the Valley's growing wine, food and tourism industries and the need to protect them. 
 
Mr Barnett refused to commit to protecting Chittering Valley's long-term, sustainable industries from encroachment by mining. 
 
"While the Premier has responded to the backlash against proposed mining in Margaret River, he refuses to make even an in-principle commitment to protecting Chittering Valley," she said. 
 
"While Mr Barnett seems to be listening to concerns about Margaret River - a popular holiday spot for some of his Cottesloe constituents - concerns about Chittering Valley have been ignored. Both areas are equally entitled to protection, both areas accommodate sustainable industries that are welcomed by locals - which would be jeopardized by mining," she said.
 
"Residents need to know they will be able to enjoy the abundant gifts of the Valley in the long-term, and the wine, food and tourism industry also needs security and stability. I will continue to work to make sure this happens." 
 
Ms Xamon said residents could help by writing to the Premier's office to voice their support for protecting the valley, and could contact her office for more information.