Anti Coal Activists Lock on to Solid Energy
At 12 noon on Sunday the 6th March, 4 protesters locked themselves on to the entrance way of Solid Energy’s head offices
in Christchurch. Supporters pitched tents and held banners, while all are preparing to spend the night at the site. The
activists are opposing Solid Energy’s proposed Cyprus Mine; an open cast coal mine to be situated at Happy Valley, on
the West Coast.
The Environment Court is set to hear appeals against the mine from tomorrow morning. Those locked on to the building
plan to stay throughout the hearing as a constant reminder to Solid Energy that their proposal to mine Happy Valley is
strongly opposed, both within and outside the court process.
“Happy Valley is a unique and precious ecosystem, home threaten species such as the Great Spotted Kiwi and giant land
snail. Furthermore the mining of this beautiful valley will only add to the problem of climate change. Coal is a totally
unsustainable fuel source that only pollutes our local and global environment,” commented Jonathan Oosterman, one of the
locked on activists.
A picket is also planned for 8.30am Monday morning outside Solid Energy, although supporters are encouraged to come down
at any time, as are those who want to discuss the issues with those locked on.
“We are here to stay! We won’t back down until Solid Energy put a stop to their plans and Happy Valley is saved!”