14 April 2009
MELBOURNE WATER STANDS BEHIND SUGARLOAF WORKERS
Melbourne Water has given its full support to seven workers targeted with trespass proceedings as part of their duties on the Sugarloaf Pipeline.
The charges have been brought by opponents of the project and carry a potential prison sentence.
Project Director for Melbourne Water, Rod Clifford, said it was disappointing that individuals had been targeted instead of the organisation behind the project.
“This is a classic case of playing the man and not the ball, despite the legislation being crystal clear on the matter,” said Mr Clifford.
“Under Section 133 of the Water Act, Melbourne Water has the right to enter properties for infrastructure works as long as seven day's notice is given,” he said.
“People have the right to test legislation in the courts but we’re disappointed they’re coming after workers rather than the organisation.
“Although we are confident that these charges will be dismissed, they are still causing unnecessary stress to those targeted and their families, especially as they carry a potential prison sentence.”
“This project has been through an extremely rigorous approvals process and has been subject to intense scrutiny. We’ve been entirely upfront about our rights and responsibilities, and I’m pleased to say that we’ve had constructive relationships with the vast majority of landowners and businesses we’ve dealt with.”
Mr Clifford said the charges had no impact on the project itself, with work continuing at full pace.
“Already, about 37 kilometres of the pipeline route has been cleared and around 25 kilometres of pipe is now in the ground,” he said.
“Reinstatement in the Toolangi State Forest and Glenburn area is ready to begin and compensation payments for affected landowners continue to be negotiated. Work at both the pump stations and the outlet to the Sugarloaf Reservoir is progressing well.”
The project is on schedule to be delivered in 2010.
Media Contact: Andrew McGinnes +613 9235 7277 +61 (0)403 930 846