Friends of the Earth support the Latrobe Valley community’s call for GDF Suez (Engie) to pay the $18 million cost of fighting the Hazelwood coal mine fire.

“Friends of the Earth support the community’s call for GDF Suez to pay for the cost of fighting the Hazelwood coal mine fire,” said Leigh Ewbank, Friends of the Earth spokesperson.

“Victorians should not foot the bill for the worst environmental disaster in the state’s history.”

The community’s decision to deliver an invoice to the Hazelwood owner’s Melbourne headquarters shows the Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio’s call for GDF Suez to pay up has strong community support.

“The human toll of the coal mine fire is yet to be fully realised. We’re shocked by GDF Suez’s objection to paying for the cost of the emergency response,” said Leigh Ewbank.

“The company’s position is out-of-step with community expectations.”

Friends of the Earth say the Hazelwood owner’s refusal to pay the cost of fire fighting strengthens the case for regulation.

“GDF Suez’s refusal to pay an $18 million fire-fighting bill strengthens the case for regulating the coal sector. The Energy Minister Lily D’Ambrosio can regulate to protect the public purse, community health, and our climate,” said Leigh Ewbank.

TAKE ACTION:

• Follow Wendy Farmer from Voices of the Valley on Twitter to stay informed.
• Sign the petition calling on GDF Suez to do the right thing and pay for the cost of the Hazelwood coalmine fire.