LNP queries State’s reluctance on Acland approvals

OPPOSITION spokesman for State Development Andrew Powell has questioned the State Government’s motives for stalling approvals for the New Acland Stage 3 project.

OPPOSITION spokesman for State Development Andrew Powell has questioned the State Government's motives for stalling approvals for the New Acland Stage 3 project.

The Oakey Coal Action Alliance was recently granted special leave to appeal to the High Court over the mine's Stage 3 expansion.

The State Government has previously said it was awaiting the outcome of the High Court appeal before making a decision on the mine's approvals.

Mr Powell visited the New Acland site on Friday and was impressed by the operation, particularly the rehabilitation work being done.

"The rehabilitation is outstanding," Mr Powell said.

"It's hard to believe there was once a mine under all that grass.

"But what I really can't get over is the fact the State Government is sitting on the vital approvals this mine needs to keep employing regional Queenslanders.

"The workers I spoke to are truly fearful they will be out of work within the next six months if something doesn't change."

Mr Powell said, in the current climate, the government should be looking at every opportunity to create jobs, not destroy them.

"The minister and premier really need to come out here and front up to these workers and the community and explain the real reason why they won't give the approvals."

Acland Mine general manager Dave O'Dwyer said it was great to have the Opposition spokesman visit the site and speak with workers.

"We have always had great support from the local member Pat Weir and to have Andrew out here today gave the workforce some encouragement that there is support for the project," Mr O'Dwyer said on Friday.