Mine challenge begins in court
Posted by mcarthurriver on March 27, 2007
From the NT News
TRADITIONAL landowners yesterday began court action against the Territory Government’s decision to allow expansion of the McArthur River mine.
 Lawyer Tim Robertson told the Supreme Court the agreement should be overturned because it went against the Mine Management Act.
He said the new operation was, in effect, a new mine.
The Government approved expansion of the giant lead-zinc mine in October.
Swiss company Xstrata plans to convert the mine into an open cut operation and divert the McArthur River for 5.5km.
But not all traditional owners opposed the mine expansion.
Phillip Timothy, 43, said landowners had not been consulted properly.
“This is like a kick in the guts because we didn’t know,” he said.
“Back home there is a lot of frustration and anger.
“They are going to put the mine right in the middle of our river system. There are a lot of spiritual things there.
David Harvey, 43, said he was looking forward to being heard.
“We want to get up and talk. Let the whole of Australia and all over the world know what we’re fighting for _ our rights and our country.
Mr Robertson said the Government failed to consider environmental impacts of the increased operation. The case is expected to run for five days.
By PHOEBE STEWART, 27mar07
http://www.ntnews.news.com.au/common/story_page/0,7034,21452398%255E13569,00.html
Posted in Legal challenge, McArthur River, NT Government, Xstrata | 1 Comment »
