Nationals and CFMEU dig in behind native logging in NSW despite government analysis supporting closure

Union secretary warns against stopping the industry and believes NSW government will not show same ‘disrespect’ as Victoria

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The forestry union and the New South Wales Nationals say they will continue to back native forest logging in the state despite a report by the previous Coalition government that found the industry could be ended without hurting the budget.

Environmental groups, however, have welcomed the revelation that the department assessed an industry closure for then environment minister James Griffin, saying it is proof that it could be done “if the political will is there”.