Greens MP blasts Fed Gov over mine extensions

The Greens have blasted the Federal Government over its decision to approve to coal mine extensions in the Upper Hunter.

Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek has given the green light to applications to extend the life of Ashton Coal’s Ravensworth Underground and MACH Energy’s Mount Pleasant in Muswellbrook.

But NSW Greens spokesperson on mining Sue Higginson said there’s now little to no chance the state’s emission reduction targets will be met.

Ms Higginson has also questioned the Federal Government’s jobs narrative associated with the decision.

Local government MP Dan Repacholi claims the move will ensure the employment of hundreds of workers for many years to come but Ms Higginson says the community can see through that.