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Fielding slams renewable energy job projections

News Clippings ABC Online, August 05 2009

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ABC Online
05/08/2007

There have been fiery scenes in a Senate committee hearing this morning over the number of jobs that will be created by having a 20 per cent renewable energy target.

The Senate is expected to vote this month on the bill that would make it mandatory for 20 per cent of energy to come from renewable sources.

It is linked to the emissions trading scheme legislation which will be voted on next week.

Family First Senator Steve Fielding responded angrily when Treasury officials could not tell him how many jobs the renewable energy target (RET) will create.

“You’re saying you have to take that on notice - that’s outrageous - you’re asking me to vote on this and you’re going to take it on notice,” he said.

“How many jobs are going to be created? This is absolutely serious, you’re playing around with Australia’s future and you’re taking on notice how many jobs are going to be created out of RET.”