Fed: Gunns says still fully committed to pursuing mill project=2

AAP General News (Australia)
08-30-2007
Fed: Gunns says still fully committed to pursuing mill project=2

Mr Gay said the company expected some delay following the recent extension of the public
comment period by federal Minister for Environment and Water Resources Malcolm Turnbull,
and legal action by opponents of the mill.

The appeal action followed a decision by the Federal Court on August 9.

Mr Turnbull was soon due to make a decision on environmental approval for the mill
but yesterday granted himself a 30 working day - or six week - extension to consider the
issue.

The Tasmanian parliament is expected to vote today in favour of the $2 billion pulp mill.

Tasmanian Premier Paul Lennon said the parliament was likely to vote overwhelmingly
in favour of the project and he was seeking today to urgently clarify the legality of
Mr Turnbull's action.

Businessman Geoffrey Cousins, a former adviser to Prime Minister John Howard, is among
high-profile opponents of the mill.

Mr Cousins has enlisted the support of more than 120 well-known personalities, including
actors Bryan Brown, Cate Blanchett and Rachel Ward and playwright David Williamson.

Gunns is expected to report its full year earnings results later today.

AAP ea/klm/sp

KEYWORD: PULP GUNNS 2 SYDNEY

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