THE alleged murder of an Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) employee near Moree could spark an overhaul of safety procedures for government workers.
NSW Environment Minister Rob Stokes ordered a review today after meeting with family and friends of Glen Turner, who died on Tuesday evening when he was allegedly attempting to serve a notice for illegal clearing of native vegetation at a Croppa Creek property.
"I have asked the chief executive of OEH to personally oversee a review of work health and safety policies and procedures in light of this unprecedented tragedy," Mr Stokes said.
"There are thousands of compliance officers at work across our country every day.
"Every one of them has an important job to do, and no one deserves to face personal threats and danger for simply doing their job."
Mr Stokes said it was incredibly sad to meet so many people on Thursday whose lives have been affected by the death of father-of-two Glen Turner.
"He was clearly a beautiful man with a beautiful family who leaves a powerful legacy of public service."
Steve Turner, assistant general secretary for the Public Service Association (PSA), agreed a review of safety procedures was necessary.
"The PSA has called on the government for a risk assessment for all of their staff... especially compliance officers.
"The questions that need to be answered are how did it occur, and how could it have been prevented," Mr Turner said.
Ian Turnbull, 79, appeared in Moree Local Court on Wednesday, charged with the murder.
The case was adjourned until August 5.
Roderick Makim
Senior journalist for The Land.
Senior journalist for The Land.
