LNP Bemoans 'Loss Of 700 Jobs'

February 15, 2018

LNP Leader Deb Frecklington says the State Government’s decision to refuse an environmental authority (EA) for Acland Stage 3 is the likely death knell for up to 700 local jobs.

“I’m incredibly disappointed on behalf of the people of Oakey and the Darling Downs that the Palaszczuk Government hasn’t done what it said it would do and respected the judicial process underway for the Acland project,” Mrs Frecklington said.

“Despite a judicial review still being before the courts, Labor decided to unilaterally kill off a mine expansion before that legal process has been allowed to run its course.

“When the LNP asked the Premier in State Parliament why she had broken her promise to the people of Acland to abide by this legal process, she refused to back away from her Environment Department’s decision to kill the EA.

“Given the Acland project provides full-time jobs for up to 600 Darling Downs locals and contributes almost $500 million to the Queensland economy, the company and its loyal employees should have been given the courtesy of having their day in court.

“Unlike Annastacia Palaszczuk, I know this mine provides critical off-farm employment for so many local primary producers and I’m really worried about what happens to those farming families now.

“Out of respect for those families, the LNP would have respected the court process.

“Labor’s knee jerk reactions and backflips are hurting business confidence, killing investment and costing Queenslanders jobs.

“Whether it’s the Gold Coast resort, the Carmichael project or Aquis in Cairns, who would do business with the Palaszczuk Labor Government when they keep changing the goal posts.”

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