Greens NSW MP John  Kaye who moved the motion said  “We are very concerned about the impact the 19.6 km of 132,000 volt overhead feeder will have on Central Coast residents.

“We wanted the Upper House to ask Minister Macdonald to use his powers to direct Energy Australia to stop work on the new structures while the underground and rerouting option was given proper consideration.

“Government members ganged up with the Christian Democrats and the Shooters party to kill the motion and leave the residents of the Central Coast at the mercy of Energy Australia.

“Only the National and Liberal party members joined with the Greens in supporting community concern about health and environmental impacts.

“The Minister dismissed health issues raised by Central Coast residents as well as the threat of damage to Wamberal Lagoon and Terrigal Lagoon. They will be deeply disappointed by the government’s failure to protect their families and environment.

“With more poles being installed this morning, The Greens won enough support from the Coalition and cross benches to have the motion debated as a matter of urgency. However, the crossbenches supported the Minister’s position when it went to the vote. It was a narrow loss but the impacts of Energy Australia’s plan could be devastating.

“There was a robust debate, but the Minister for the Central Coast, Mr John Della Bosca failed to speak on the matter.

“Recent international studies have shown increased incidence in leukaemia in children who are born or live near high voltage overhead power lines.

“Undergrounding the lines would reduce the health risks and would lower total costs in medium to long term. The Iemma government is opting for a quick fix short term option” said Dr Kaye.

For more information: John Kaye 0407 195 455