The current government is stalling on implementation of recommendations of the Finkel report, especially a clean energy target. Tony Abbott, an ardent denier of climate change, has voiced his opposition despite the government’s signature on the 2015 Paris Agreement to remove coal from electricity production world-wide.

Tony Abbott wants to substitute “clean coal” for renewable energy. There is no such thing. The concept of carbon dioxide capture and sequestration in the ground is not a viable, safe or affordable large-scale option now or into the foreseeable future.

According to Mr Abbott, renewable energy will never be capable of powering the steel or aluminium industries in Australia. But on September 20, Mr Sanjeev Gupta, owner of steel and aluminium plants in the UK and the Whyalla Steelworks in South Australia has just bought a 50.1 per cent share in Zen Energy and is planning to set up an array of renewable energy that can deliver reliable power to his steel industry and provide excess power into the grid. This clean power will drive down the cost of power for everyone, according to Mr Gupta.

Tony Abbott would have us believe that “coal is the future” but Australia’s stock of coal-fired powered stations are the most polluting generators on the planet, which is a cause for concern for public health.

The health of many elderly Australians is also at risk as many cannot afford to use air conditioners during predicted heat waves this coming summer.  Will Mr Abbott and his colleagues be there to say sorry at the funerals of elderly victims this summer? It’s time for everyone to let this government know that its actions are unconscionable.

With regards to the McKoy Street/Hume Freeway interchange, I agree with Bill Tilley that it should be upgraded with an overpass. The issue for me is why wasn't it included when the internal by-pass was built or likely plans developed if they haven't been already.

I do note Mr Tilley mentioned it as part of his wishlist in The Border Mail, for the 2017-18 state budget (‘Funding for North East trains in limbo ahead of Victorian budget,’ April 27), included funding for Melrose Drive and McKoy Street interchanges and I do hope he advocates for the upgrades to go ahead, at least, with the next state budget regardless. If the cheap option is favoured though, blocking off McKoy Street altogether would be the best outcome.

By observation and unfortunate experiences, I believe the lack of use of indicators by many motorists is reaching a critical point. Traffic at intersections attempting to turn right or left are caused unnecessarily to bank up. Further to this, at roundabouts not indicating to turn right in front of through traffic is an accident in waiting. The practice of motorists not indicating is lazy, inconsiderate, arrogant, and dangerous. Although this also occurs elsewhere, the problem is very prevalent at the Thurgoona Plaza, Shuter Avenue entry/exit, exacerbating an already poor design and traffic hazard.