NT: Garrett called on to make "swift" MRM call
07 Jan 2009 12:57 PM
DARWIN, Jan 7 AAP - The Country Liberals are urging federal Environment Minister Peter Garrett to make a "swift" decision on the future of one of the world's largest zinc mines.
The full bench of the Federal Court last month upheld an appeal to halt the expansion of the McArthur River Mine (MRM), near the Gulf of Carpentaria.
Aborigines from Borroloola argued the Howard government did not follow proper process when it approved an application by MRM's owner Xstrata to convert the mine to open cut.
The Swiss mining giant immediately halted all mining and civil works, prompting fears the mine may be forced to close.
At the time, the federal government indicated it was open to reviewing the company's application.
NT opposition resources spokesman, Willem Westra van Holthe, said Mr Garrett's office handed him the environmental briefing documents this week.
"Almost three weeks since work stopped at the McArthur River Mine, Mr Garrett is finally in a position to consider the departmental advice relating to the project," he said on Wednesday.
"Notwithstanding Mr Garrett's pre-occupation with the Gunns pulp mill decision, I hope he understands the importance of a swift resolution to uncertainty surrounding the future of the McArthur River Mine."
It is feared the loss of the mine could cost the NT economy millions in export earnings and more than 300 jobs.
The NT government passed legislation to ensure the project's survival in 2007, after the Supreme Court ruled the process it had used to approve the mine was invalid.
The controversial move prompted three of its own indigenous MPs to cross the floor.
Mr Garrett has also said he will meet with traditional owners, who are calling for the McArthur River - which has been diverted by 5.5km to enable the $110 million expansion - to be restored to its original route.
