Greens MP and mining spokesperson, Jeremy Buckingham has called on the government to thoroughly investigate an AGL coal seam gas well (Sugar Loaf 3) that leaked a foamy substance into the air next to the Sydney suburb of Glen Alpine and a water supply canal. (see map as PDF)
Mr Buckingham witnessed and filmed the gas well spurt the substance into the air for 15 minutes last week and has written to the Environment Minister, Robyn Parker, asking her to investigate.
“I was disturbed to witness an unknown substance spurt into the air from this coal seam gas well and drift toward houses in Glen Alpine,” said Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham.
“When we looked at the map later and saw the water supply canal only metres from the foaming well I was even more concerned.
“This incident must be thoroughly investigated to ensure the safety of Sydney’s water supply and the health of residents in nearby suburbs.
“The reckless coal seam gas industry must be brought under control by the O’Farrell government.
“There are many concerns about the safety, health, land use and environmental effects of the coal seam gas industry. It should not be allowed to expand until these concerns are properly addressed.
“The Greens will move a bill in parliament for a 12 month moratorium on coal seam gas, and a prohibition of coal seam gas extraction in the Sydney Metropolitan Area,” he said.
