Hysterical claims require substantiation says Ambre Energy
Opponents of the proposed coal-to-liquids project, ambreCTL, have been challenged to substantiate their claims or apologise publicly.
Ambre Energy Director, Michael van Baarle, today branded comments made by opposition group, Friends of Felton, as ‘desperate’ and ‘dishonest’.
“Ambre Energy accepts that not everyone will welcome our project and we acknowledge that groups and individuals have the right to question and oppose us. In fact we actively encourage input and welcome differing viewpoints.
“However the so-called ‘friends’ of Felton are making poisonous and unsubstantiated allegations which are unsettling the local community.”
Mr van Baarle said Ambre Energy had worked hard to build and maintain relationships based on respect, trust and honesty with local farming and business communities, and with all levels of government.
“I can state categorically that the so-called ‘friends’ group does not represent the Felton district, where we have some solid support.
“In fact, it has attracted membership from noisy individuals, ideologically opposed to mining in any form. I would question whether they have the best interests of this area at heart and whether some of them even live in Queensland.”
Mr van Baarle said Ambre Energy approached its business dealings and community interactions in an honest and open way.
“We have resisted ‘tit-for-tat’ public arguments on the untrue claims of our opponents. However the statements have become increasingly offensive and hysterical.
“We are not threatening the health of local children, nor will ‘volatile organic compounds’ allegedly released from ambreCTL poison local chickens.”
Mr van Baarle said Friends of Felton’s alleged ‘expert findings’ into the health impacts of coal mining had no traction or acceptance in the scientific community.
“Our project will create 530 full-time jobs. The notion that we would willingly jeopardise the health and well-being of our workers or that of surrounding communities in any way is offensive.”
He said ambreCTL would not render food production on the Darling Downs obsolete, kill the local koala population or poison the Murray-Darling Basin system.
“Agricultural industries on the eastern Darling Downs can co-exist with and enjoy the mutual benefits associated with other local industries, including those that have a coal mining component. Millmerran Power Station nearby is a notable local example which is conveniently ignored,” he said.
“We understand there will be a level of apprehension within the community, but we urge people to look for the facts and not be distracted by emotive half-truths and lies.
“Undertaking comprehensive, robust environmental impact studies is costing us tens of millions of dollars. We do not cut corners, the same can’t be said for the Friends of Felton. Where is their science, where is their proof, where is their evidence?
“Every claim we make can be substantiated. These claims are always analysed by the public and the media. We ask people to treat Friends of Felton’s comments and assertions with the same degree of scrutiny,” Mr van Baarle said.
Ends
For more information contact: Matt Adams 0488 289 088
Download "Hysterical claims require substantiation says Ambre Energy" as a PDF
