Today marks the end of the initial 60-day period for Expressions of Interest for uranium exploration in NSW. NSW Resources Minister Chris Hartcher can now choose to allow applications for uranium exploration from mining companies.
Greens MP and uranium spokesperson Jamie Parker will speak at a midday rally outside Parliament house today alongside MPs, union representatives, activists and community members protesting uranium exploration and mining.
"Labor and Liberal governments in Australia are legislating to allow uranium exploration and mining, placing local communities at risk while increasing the threat of nuclear proliferation and disasters overseas," Mr Parker said.
"This is particularly concerning considering Federal Labor's decision to export uranium to India, a country which has not signed the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.
"The Queensland government's recent decision to allow uranium mining should serve as a warning to NSW: exploration inevitably leads to mining and all the dangers and health hazards that involves.
"Instead of encouraging this dangerous and outdated industry which will leave a lasting radioactive legacy for future generations, we should be looking to the future of energy generation and investing in renewables.
"Minister Hartcher should come clean to the NSW public about which companies are interested in exploring for uranium and which areas of our state will be impacted.
"Communities should have a say over whether they are exposed to the risks of uranium exploration and mining.
"Uranium exploration and mining is dangerous for workers, local communities and the environment and the government cannot ignore the growing community campaign and widespread opposition to this industry," Mr Parker said.
Rally midday today - Tuesday 13 November - NSW Parliament, Macquarie Street
Speakers include:
Jamie Parker MP - Greens MP and uranium spokesperson
Linda Burney MP - Deputy Leader of the Opposition
Genevieve Kelly - NTEU NSW Secretary, recently returned from Unions NSW trip to Japan
Richard Broinowski - Former diplomat, University of Sydney Adjunct Professor and author
More information: Alison Martin 9230 2803 or 0432 941 533
Be the first to comment
Sign in with