Mr. Chapple said that he had sought and received a commitment from the General Manager of the Yeelirrie Uranium Project that any future yellowcake export from that mine would occur interstate, via Kalgoorlie.
“I commend BHP Billiton Uranium for not buying in to Mr. Langoulant’s efforts to tout yellowcake as an Oakajee export,” Mr. Chapple said.
“BHP have identified that exporting yellowcake via Kalgoorlie is the only viable option for their Yeelirrie project.”
Mr. Chapple said that the Premier had been caught out breaking an election promise over the export issue.
“In the face of this commitment from what would be the largest uranium operator in the State, Mr. Barnett now needs to explain why he has backflipped on his election promise not to allow uranium exports via WA ports.”
“I fully expect that BHP will not succumb to the politicking around this issue, and will not abandon its commitment to please the recalcitrant Mr. Barnett.”
Mr. Chapple said that while BHP’s commitment was a win for the safety of Western Australian port workers and residents, it was ultimately moving the risks associated with uranium mining onto the people of Kalgoorlie and he remained opposed to uranium mining.
“Inadequate radiation health measures, lack of indigenous consultation, and the unsustainability of the nuclear industry mean that the Greens remain implacably opposed to any uranium projects in this State.”
- Media Contact: Robin Chapple on 0409 379 263 or 9486 8255
