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Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Page: 285

Uranium Mining

(Question No. 1273)

Senator Ludlam asked the Minister representing the Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities, upon notice, on 12 October 2011:

In regard to the draft memorandum of understanding negotiated by the Government with Paladin Energy Ltd to access the Oobagooma uranium deposit in Western Australia:

(1) When will that memorandum of understanding be finalised.

(2) What were the timelines and dates of meetings in the process of its negotiation.

(3) How does the development of a uranium mine in the middle of the Kimberley National Heritage Listed area not compromise the integrity of that listing.

(4) Has the Minister advised the Minister for Resources and Energy that allowing access to the area would undermine the integrity of the Kimberley National Heritage Listed area.

Senator Conroy: The Minister for Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities has provided the following answer to the honourable senator's question:

(1) and (2) The memorandum of understanding is being negotiated by the Department of Finance and Deregulation on behalf of the Special Minister of State. These questions should be addressed to that portfolio.

(3) Any proposal to mine uranium would need to be referred under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999. Any such proposal would be carefully assessed for its likely impacts, including on national heritage values.

(4) Paladin Energy Ltd has not referred a mining proposal under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 at this stage. Accordingly, the Minister has not provided advice to the Minister for Resources and Energy relating to such a proposal.