Labor team rejects dam plan
LABOR Party candidates for the Tweed Shire Council have spoken out against plans to build a dam at Byrrill Creek.
The controversial proposal, subject to a 20-year moratorium backed by a majority of existing councillors, was initially supported by the council but that decision was rescinded.
Labor's lead candidate Michael Armstrong said construction of a dam at Byrrill Creek was unnecessary, environmentally damaging and too expensive.
"Tweed Labor rejects outright the construction of a dam at Byrrill Creek," Mr Armstrong said.
"To suggest that we should build a dam at Byrrill Creek is a rejection of the views of locals.
"We have been hearing contradictory positions from the local council for too long.
"It is time that everyone standing for election to council explained to locals their position on building the Byrrill Creek dam."
Fellow Labor candidate Reece Byrnes said evidence before the council showed why the dam should never be built.
"The Tweed Shire Council has already commissioned studies which have shown that building a dam at Byrrill Creek will irreparably harm the local environment and will cost each and every local thousands in increased rates," Mr Byrnes said.
"Any consideration of expanding Tweed's water reserves should be based on clear scientific evidence, community consultation and the most affordable option which protects the Tweed for the long term.
"To build a dam at Byrrill Creek is irresponsible and should be rejected on each of these grounds."
