Metgasco take note: the people have spoken

R J Poole, Lismore

Local elections have conclusively proven what has been known for a long time – the overwhelming majority of people are deeply opposed to coal-seam gas (CSG) mining. The democratic process has been observed and a crushing blow delivered to the supporters of CSG.

So what now?

If the NSW government and industry leaders want society to recognise their authority, they have no choice but to honour the democratic process and act upon the decision handed to them. To do otherwise would send an equally clear signal back to the wider community of their conceit.

Ignoring the will of the people will create a serious flow-on effect with dangerous ramifications. A generation of children will be raised in an atmosphere of disgruntled adults, railing against the authorities and expressing mistrust of the system. The rapid deterioration of our native environment at the hands of CSG mining will lend weight and substance to this atmosphere.

Social harmony and a faith in democracy will be eclipsed by something no-one wants.

Every person employed by CSG company Metgasco must operate with the conscious knowledge they are flouting democracy and promoting social discord. Regardless of their personal ambition, they must live with the scorn of the wider community upon their backs.

Only a powerful mixture of greed and arrogance will sustain them.