“We are disgusted by DOC’s shameful action. DOC is supposed to protect our endangered species, not help mining companies send them to extinction. We will maintain our occupation to stop the blasting. Protecting this habitat is the key to saving this ancient, endemic snail,” said Frances Mountier, spokesperson for the Save Happy Valley Coalition.

“This is state sponsored species extinction. Not only are Solid Energy mining 94% of the habitat of this critically endangered species, they have now pressured DOC into closing the land to help them get away with wiping it out. The Labour Government, despite signing international agreements to save species, has a mining company sending a species to extinction, and a so-called ‘Department of Conservation’ aiding that extinction.

“New Zealand must stop mining more and more coal, in the face of the growing threat of climate change. It is ridiculous that the Government is enabling coal mining at the expense of our precious species. Powelliphanta “Augustus” has been in existence for 235 million years. The coal from Mt Augustus will last two years and help destroy the planet.

“If DOC and Solid Energy can get away with making these critically endangered snails extinct, then no species in the entire country is safe when profit is involved. DOC is being deceitful playing the safety angle, closing the land at set times. DOC has no mandate to help drive species to extinction. They are undermining the occupation when they should be supporting it. However, we remain committed to protecting this species, and our ridgeline occupation remains,” said Ms Mountier.

ENDS

Media Contact
Frances Mountier, Save Happy Valley Coalition spokesperson

Save Happy Valley Coalition
The Save Happy Valley Coalition is a collection of groups and individuals from around Aotearoa committed to stopping Solid Energy's proposed open cast coal mine in Happy Valley (Upper Waimangaroa Valley) on the West Coast. They work to raise awareness on climate change in New Zealand. They are also deeply concerned about the fate of all endangered species under threat from Solid Energy, including Powelliphanta “Augustus” at the nearby Stockton mine. The Coalition is made up of West Coast locals, students, workers and the general public. The group has a track record of creative protests and lock-ons as well as producing a variety of informative media. They have been occupying Happy Valley since 28th January 2006. More information about the coalition and its history can be found at www.savehappyvalley.org.nz/aboutus.htm