Mood:
downTopic: election nsw 2007
MEDIA RELEASE - 19 March 2007
Intimidation, vandalism at Greens candidate's home
cuts close to heart
Greens MP Lee Rhiannon has called on police to fast track their investigation of the destruction of a large number of native trees along the driveway leading to the property of Conny Harris, Greens candidate for the seat of Wakehurst.
Greens MP Ms Rhiannon said: "Dr Harris and her family were put in a dangerous situation last night. More than 10 native trees were cut down with a chainsaw and the family were blocked from using their driveway.
"This vandalism occurred between 11pm last night and 5 am this morning. The trees cut down were part of a massive bush regeneration project Dr Harris has been involved in.
"Dr Harris lives with her husband and three children in Oxford Falls. Both Dr Harris and her husband are doctors at public hospitals and were unable to attend work today.
"Dr Harris has a strong local profile as a conservationist and I can only guess that this act of vandalism has been done to intimidate her.
"She is recognised locally as an authority on eucalypts and native vegetation and lectures to plant groups and on community education days. This act of vandalism has caused her a lot of personal distress.
"Dr Harris' family have experienced this type of intimidation in the past. She has had her letterbox stolen and property vandalised.
"Emergency Services personnel have visited Dr Harris' property this morning to work out how to restore access to the family home.
"The police need to take this investigation seriously because the threat to Dr Harris and her family has been very upsetting."
Greens candidate Dr Harris said: "This kind of dirty politics is very irresponsible.
"These native trees are close to my heart and my family feels threatened.
"I am a doctor at a public hospital and was unable to get my car out of the drive and go to work today. This act has potentially harmed more people than just my family."
