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Greens launch Peak Oil Response Plan

NSW Greens MP Lee Rhiannon has introduced a bill into NSW Parliament designed to push the government into preparing for the serious ramifications of 'peak oil' that will necessitate monumental changes to the way people live in NSW.

"Oil vulnerability, alongside climate change, is one of the key challenges of our time but the NSW government has done nothing to prepare for its massive ramifications," Ms Rhiannon said.

"The Greens Peak Oil Response Plan Bill 2008 establishes a Peak Oil Taskforce to develop strategies to mitigate the impact of peak oil on NSW.

"The work of this Taskforce is clearly set out in the bill, including analysing the oil-based fuel requirements of NSW until 2020.

"The Taskforce's job will include determining the effect of peak oil on critical local facilities, such as hospitals and emergency services, and the disproportionate impact of peak oil on disadvantaged, regional and rural communities.

"The Greens Peak Oil Response Plan also sets out the need for a moratorium on constructing oil dependent infrastructure, such as motorways, while the Taskforce undertakes its work.

"Once the Taskforce has completed its work, the Premier must respond to its recommendations by developing a comprehensive action plan.

"Oil prices are climbing. As of this week, West Texas crude hit more than $US123 a barrel.

"There are no quick fixes to this situation or room for institutional denial.

"NSW must follow the lead of other governments around the world who are preparing for peak oil.

"Practical initiatives such as awareness programs, developing and switching to renewable fuel sources and implementing energy efficiency measures must be taken now.

"Whether our future is marked by unrest, violence and exaggerated increases in inequalities, or a less traumatic transition, partly depends on government's ability to plan and adapt to peak oil," said Ms Rhiannon.

Ms Rhiannon's second reading speech for the bill can be found here:
http://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/prod/parlment/hansart.nsf/V3Key/LC20080508034

For more information: Lee Rhiannon - 9230 3551; 0427 861 568