PREMIER Barry O’Farrell says the government is looking at its options following calls for him to stop NuCoal exploring near Jerrys Plains for its proposed Doyles Creek mine because of corruption allegations.
‘‘The government is seeking a report on the options available to government,’’ Mr O’Farrell’s office said yesterday.
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NSW Farmers Association president Fiona Simson called on the Premier to intervene after Tuesday’s Land and Environment Court order that farmers Ian and Robyn Moore must give NuCoal access so it can explore their property for coal.
‘‘It is appropriate that the Premier step in to minimise the stress and anxiety caused to Mr Moore, who is being forced to allow NuCoal to act on a licence that may have been granted in corrupt circumstances,’’ Ms Simson said.
Former Labor minister Ian Macdonald gave Doyles Creek Mining the exploration licence in December 2008. NuCoal bought Doyles Creek Mining in February this year.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption will investigate the granting of the licence after a report commissioned by the Department of Resources and Energy this year found Mr Macdonald ignored departmental guidelines by not going to tender for the licence.
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