Iemma Govt betrays Central Coast residents on power lines fears

Dr Kaye said "When we tried to bring on our motion in parliament calling for the proposed lines from Ourimbah to Terrigal to be rerouted and placed underground, government Whip Greg Donnelly objected and killed debate.
 
"The Iemma government has shown a total disregard for the well-being and concerns of residents. They are not even prepared to debate the matter.
 
"Energy Australia is planning to install 19.6 km of above-ground 132 kV power lines through residential areas, with only a small section at Wamberal being laid underground.
 
"The planned route, for the above-ground transmission lines will directly affect homes, schools, childcare centres, and public open spaces. There are health risks, environmental impacts and urban amenity issues.
 
"The Greens motion called on the Minister for Energy to direct Energy Australia to install the entire length of the transmission lines underground and select a route that did not impact on residents or the sensitive environmental areas of Wamberal and Terrigal lagoons.
 
"Recent international studies have shown an increased incidence in leukaemia in children who are born or live near high voltage overhead power lines. The World Health Organisation recommends precautionary measures aimed at reducing exposure to even low frequency magnetic fields."
 
"The benefits of undergrounding include much lower exposure to magnetic fields, safer roads, improved supply reliability, lower maintenance costs, greatly reduced vulnerability to storms and bushfires and lower cost electricity in the medium to long term.
 
"By not even debating the issue, the Iemma government is running away from the very real concerns of Central Coast residents and abandoning the opportunity to work for a better outcome for the community," said Dr Kaye.
 
For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455