NSW Farmers’ Association Mining Taskforce Chair Fiona Simson says while farmers welcome a seat at the table of the State Government’s stakeholder reference group, the Terms of Reference need further explanation.

“The Terms of Reference for this group clearly identify the State Government’s intention to develop a vision for the coal industry – but appear to have completely overlooked the need for a vision for all stakeholders,” Fiona Simson said.

The NSW Farmers Association Mining Taskforce will be holding a stakeholders meeting in Gloucester on Thursday, February 17 at the Gloucester Golf Club (starting at 1.00pm) to discuss the future of food production and mining in the region.

“We have continually sought genuine balance in the way we use our land and water resources in this State, and we question whether the current Terms of Reference are able to produce that outcome.

"As we have clearly stated on a number of occasions, an up-front strategic planning framework must be adopted by government, capable of protecting productive agricultural land and water resources and capital improvements into the future,“ Mrs Simson said.

In July last year, the State Government announced its intentions to prepare a strategic plan for coal mining in NSW. Since that date, it has granted 6 mining titles – covering a total area of 7038 hectares.

“This area of land equates to 3,784 Sydney Cricket Grounds. This does not take into account the extensive list of coal applications that have not yet been assessed, representing an area of more than 20 500 hectares, or more than 11 000 SCGs,” Mrs Simson said.

“A statewide plan is needed now – with a vision for all stakeholders,” Fiona Simson concluded.

For more information on the NSW Farmers Association Meeting in Gloucester, please contact Michael Burt on 65642355.