13.11.09 Self-representation opposed by Gunns Ltd lawyers.

Gunns Ltd’s lawyers today in court opposed individual defendants seeking self-representation. Saying that the court ‘ought not allow’ it as it would effect the administration of the trial negatively.

“Nothing will deter me from defending my right to free speech and protest. Tasmania’s ancient forests are too precious to back down in the face of a corporate bully like Gunns Ltd," said defendant #1 Adam Burling.

"At their AGM this week Gunns Ltd claimed they had spent $2.8 million on the Gunns 20 case. This is likely a very conservative estimate, given they have paid out over $1 million in costs to defendants and gone through three legal teams since they started this law suit.

Running this case through trial is likely to add another $1 million to the costs. Gunns Ltd appears to have very deep pockets when it comes to pursuing individuals and community groups who oppose their destruction of Tasmania's native forest," said Mr Burling