31 July 2013

Circular Head Mayor Daryl Quilliam and Waratah-Wynyard Mayor Robby Walsh have today welcomed the news that Federal Environment Minister Mark Butler has reapproved Shree Minerals proposed mine near Nelson Bay River.

“While this is welcome news for our region in terms of the potential jobs and the economic benefit, there are still a few hurdles to go through,” Mayor Quilliam said.

“This includes the threat of further legal action by the Tarkine National Coalition, otherwise known as Save the Tarkine.”

Today’s announcement follows a decision earlier this month by the Federal Court to overturn the approval of the mine because of concerns the proposal did not take into account the impact on the Tasmanian devil.

“Both Mayor Quilliam and I are hopeful that these concerns have now been addressed and there will be no grounds for an appeal,” Mayor Walsh said.

“I remain optimistic that we will see this mine start operating soon, which will help address the state’s high unemployment rate.”

Both Mayors also took the opportunity to thank Minister Butler for making such a quick decision.

“With several job losses announced just days ago in both Devonport and in Launceston, Tasmania needs to move forward with projects such as these that will help get our state back on a firm footing,” Mayor Quilliam said.

“It is welcoming that the Federal Government has recognised the importance of this project and that it achieves the balance between environment and economic activity in this part of Tasmania.”