2/1/05
Environment Minister Judy Edwards said the Coalition’s commitment to develop new uranium mines in Western Australia would be an environmental disaster.
Dr Edwards was responding to a comment in the Australian Newspaper (30/12/04) that a Colin Barnett-led Coalition Government could consider ‘on merit’, proposals for new uranium mines in WA.
Dr Edwards reiterated Labor’s clear policy difference to the Coalition, with the Gallop Labor Government committed to banning new uranium mining.
“Where does the Coalition think it is going to process and store the thousands of tonnes of radioactive material?” she asked.
“The community of WA does not want a uranium industry and the associated waste and health risks that go with it.
“This would take WA back three decades to a debate that has already been fought and won. People do not want new uranium mines and the environmental damage they can cause.
“The Coalition should be upfront and explain where it intends to promote new uranium mines, what it intends to do with the waste material and how it would safely manage the environmental impacts.
“This is a clear example of another Coalition policy made without investigating all the facts and without reflecting the community’s real wishes.”
Minister's Office - 9220 5050
