Greens WA spokesperson on Mining, Robin Chapple MLC, has questioned the motives of the Barnett Government in refusing the two to three-year extension and State Agreement request of mining giants Rio Tinto and Alcoa on a bauxite deposit on the Mitchell Plateau surrounded by national park south-west of Kalumburu.
“While the refusal of this proposal is a positive one and I commend Mr Barnett for making it, it is easy to be cynical on these kinds of statements, especially when made in the lead-up to an election”, said Mr Chapple today.
“Premier Barnett has shown us time and again that he has no intention of protecting environment where big mining industries have an interest, and the environmental reputation of his government is in tatters because of it. He is desperate for some environmental credibility, but recent announcements are too little, too late.
“I’d like to hope we can hold the Premier to his word on this issue, but with James Price Point, the Burrup and so many other environmentally damaging developments under his belt I suspect the Western Australian people should reserve their applause until after the election.”
For more information please contact Robin Chapple on 0409 379 263 or 9486 8255
