18 December 2012
TODAY’s federal government approval for a new open-cut iron ore mine in Tasmania’s North-West Tarkine region has been welcomed as an exciting boost for the state by resource industry employer group AREEA (Australian Mines and Metals Association).
AREEA chief executive Steve Knott says federal environment minister Tony Burke’s decision to allow the Shree Minerals mine to proceed will bring a much-needed injection of employment and economic growth to the region.
“This decision is very sensible and sends a positive message that economically and environmentally responsible mining projects will play a big part in Tasmania’s future,” Mr Knott says.
“For more than one hundred years Tasmania has had enormous economic development upside from mining and this decision allows resource employers to continue this legacy.
“Premier Giddings has outlined that just 1% of the Tarkine region is proposed for mining development, meaning this decision to resist extreme green agendas is sensible and will allow Tasmania to stand on its own two feet.”
Mr Knott has recently joined Australian Workers Union (AWU) national secretary Paul Howes in voicing support for the approval of new mining developments in the Tarkine. The public commentary came as 3000 Burnie locals last month demonstrated their support for additional projects in the region.
“The community has sent a clear message of support for future resources development,” Mr Knott says.
“These sensible economic developments put up the ‘open for responsible business investment’ signs and will assist the state in turning around its poor unemployment figures.
“The Shree Minerals approval, along with the under-consideration Venture Minerals project, will deliver a great deal of employment and economic upside that is much needed for the North-West region and the entire state.
“Representing the national resource industry, AREEA welcomes this approval alongside our social partners in the local community and the principal mining union, the AWU.”
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