MEMBER for Mount Gambier Troy Bell will seek parliamentary support for a select committee to examine the economic impact of wood fibre on regional processors.
The independent MP will move a motion for an inquiry looking into the volume of radiata pine log being exported out of the Limestone Coast and the compliance of the conditions of the sale of ForestrySA’s harvesting rights.
If passed in the state’s lower house, the inquiry will also look at economic benefits and employment opportunities through additional wood-based industries if current exported logs were made avialable for processing in South Australia.
Mr Bell said he was concerned about the level of raw log exports and the importation of finished product.
“I want to know why we are exporting so much raw product and how many jobs we are missing out on our region,” he said.
“I think it would be hundreds of jobs and hundreds of millions of dollars.
“I want those jobs for our kids, our grandkids and our community.”
Ahead of the state election, Mr Bell called for an independent auditor to examine the sale of the forward timber rotations and conditions surrounding the sale.
Last year, Mr Bell told attendees of a candidates forum “Australia exports abut 3m of log or wood product”, with 1.7m leaving the Port of Portland.
The motion is expected to be discussed on April 3.
