ERA's decision was not taken lightly, due to the fact that it is central to our base principles of supporting sensible development that promotes economic and social benefits while, at the same time, defending property owner's rights. The price suggested for the achievement of the first aim, delivered to us last week, is simply too high to support the tenet of defending the latter; property owner's rights.

For too long, successive state and local governments have refused to take a stand and, even 'though admitting schemes such as 'bio-cert' are flawed and largely accepted as being economic blackmail, have refused to take any action. WELL, NOT ERA!

We have taken a stand against 'bio-cert' to highlight to the state government and our local community that we have faith that the review, which they have assured us is genuine. It will highlight huge flaws and potential economic disaster, not only for our shire but the entire state, if the present process is to continue unchecked. 'Bio-cert' will no doubt become a bigger issue than the disastrous LEP E3 debacle if it isn't halted, especially for rural NSW. Anyone owning land with native vegetation should have alarm bells ringing very loudly in their ears when it comes to seeking to do any potential development.

South Moruya --- you are next!

ERA urges new ministers Prue Goward and Rob Stokes to act swiftly and decisively. ERA believes that due to the unique circumstances surrounding the offset lands that are proposed in this particular case, the Minister may be able to use her executive powers to permit this development, which is well supported locally, to proceed without the burden of 'bio-cert'.

What of concerns surrounding offset lands?

The proposed offset lands are PUBLIC and are already protected by a conservation order. They are under no threat of development. Developers are being forced to contribute huge sums of money into a bio - banking scheme that is fraught with inherent economic shortcomings which will potentially lead to collapse. If the bio-banking scheme fails, as predicted, then will the good 'ol Eurobodalla ratepayer will be left to foot the bill?

Sound complicated? Well it is.

ERA has taken a principled stand. We do not intend to prolong the delay and fully support the proposed development at Broulee, but NOT with the burden of bio - certification.

We appreciate the support of our local member and Treasurer, Andrew Constance and agree with him that the current proposal is untenable. We have no doubt his government is striving with us to reduce green tape which is strangling this state. It would be great to do this within in a united manner but we fear that we are on our own within the halls of Eurobodalla Council.

We want 'bio - cert' scrapped.

Neil Burnside, Liz Innes

ERA councillors