Approval first for WA uranium project

Hon Bill Marmion BE MBA MLA

• Toro Wiluna uranium mine receives Commonwealth environment approval
• First WA uranium project to receive State and Federal environmental clearance

Mines and Petroleum Minister Bill Marmion today welcomed the Federal Government’s environmental approval of Toro Energy’s Wiluna uranium project.

“As former Environment Minister, I gave State environmental approval to the project five months ago - so I certainly welcome the Federal Government’s endorsement,” Mr Marmion said.

“Opening up uranium mining in Western Australia was a central plank of the State Government’s 2008 election commitments.

“This announcement is hugely significant, as it’s the first uranium project to receive State and Federal environmental approval in WA and paves the way for a new industry in this State.”

Before construction works can begin, a range of further approvals are required, including assessment of a detailed Mining Proposal and Closure Plan by the Department of Mines and Petroleum.

The Minister said he wanted to reassure West Australians that the State Government was committed to ensuring that the uranium mining industry was safe and environmentally responsible.

“Western Australia has been mining, processing, transporting and exporting radioactive minerals, including mineral sands, for more than 40 years,” he said.

“All WA uranium mines are required through strict legislation and regulation, to ensure the safety of employees and the broader community.

“Uranium mines in WA would also meet all the relevant international safeguards in relation to the safe and peaceful use of uranium resources, and obtain environmental approvals for mining and transport.”

Fact File

• WA currently has known uranium oxides reserves of 211,000 tonnes across around 26 deposits
• WA radiation safety legislation has been in place since 1970s, to protect the public, workers and the environment

Source: ProjectLink.com.au

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