Wednesday, 3 October, 2007

Environment Centre of the northern Territory

 “What the Government fails to acknowledge is the long-term health, social and environmental impacts of uranium mining,” ECNT Beyond Nuclear uranium campaigner Emma King said.

“Every uranium mine releases radioactive radon gas, posing a danger to mine workers and local communities.

“Every uranium mine leaves behind radioactive tailings that remain active and polluting for thousands of years, threatening local water quality.

“Every uranium mine uses huge amount of water for processing, impacting on local water supplies to communities and environments.

Also of great concern is the Mining Minister’s commitment to “provide support to exploration companies wanting to obtain land access in a timely fashion”[1].

“It’s a matter of public record that traditional owners of Ranger uranium mine, the Mirarr, have experienced social problems as a result of the mine being imposed,” Ms King said.

“Mines Minister Natt’s statement raises grave concerns about the government’s commitment to upholding the rights of Indigenous Territorians.”