"Coalminers and environmental groups alike will await with keen...

"Coalminers and environmental groups alike will await with keen interest not only the outcome of the appeal but also, perhaps, views from the High Court on the appropriateness and utility of environmental groups bringing test cases on issues such as these."

If the courts do not bring some sense (a clear unambiguous directive) to this procedure, it will in the very near future begin to cost NZ dearly. And BTU will be hit hard. If there is a hint that BTU will be drawn out through this ridiculous, neigh farcical game of charade as it attempts to open up each new lease, we are in for stagnation regardless of the pending outcomes. Stagnation at a higher level than we are currentlt at but we will not see our true value potential.

And all for what. We are to produce coking coal not thermal. Any other alternative fuel would be far more damaging to the environment. I read one mis informed green view suggest that the steel industry could use plantation timber instead of coal. Lord give me strength!

A real world outcome is needed in this issue and if the Judiciary is not strong enough to deliver it then a political directive will be required. The process of a declaration of National Significance will be the way forward, but will there be the political steel to move the process forward in the manner that it needs to be.

Come on NZ. Some common sense please

Viney