McArthur River Mine expansion blocked by Paech
A landmark decision by NT Government has denied Glencore’s bid to expand the McArthur River Mine.
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A LANDMARK decision by NT Government has denied Glencore’s bid to expand the McArthur River Mine.
The NT Minister Arts, Culture and Heritage Chansey Paech upheld the Aboriginal Areas Protection Authority’s (AAPA) recommendation to the reject the mine’s calls for expansion under the NT Aboriginal Sacred Site Act.
The decision is the first time a Minister has upheld the AAPA’s recommendations. In a statement AAPA said it attempted to facilitate discussions with the mining company and Traditional Owners.
“(We) suggested alternative ways which MRM could reach an agreement with custodians but MRM did not pursue these options, and appealed AAPA’s decision with the Minister.”
The initial application was made in 2017 by the mining giant and included raising the height of the ‘northern overburden emplacement facility’ – a rubbish facility - from 80m to 140m.
The facility sits next to Damangani (Barramundi Dreaming) and is a site of significance to Borroloola Traditional Owners.
AAPA chair and Ngukurr leader Bobby Nunggumarjbarr said the sacred sites tell the story of our country.
“Aboriginal custodians have a responsibility to protect and maintain their sacred sites. MRM needs to walk our country with us, and explain what they want to do. They must let us look after the sacred sites,” Mr Nunggumarjbarr said.
“The miners will be gone in 30 years. But we will still be here.”
AAPA chief executive Dr Benedict Scambary said the Territory had a strong, clear system to ensure the protection of sacred sites, and ensure developers certainty when carrying out works.
“Today’s decision upholds AAPA’s expertise and processes, and puts all developers on notice that lip service to consultation is not good enough,” he said.
“Protecting sacred sites is not a box to be ticked, or an obstacle to be sidestepped. Aboriginal custodians must give free, prior and informed consent to development.”
Mr Paech’s decision comes just days the government was sued by Traditional Owners regarding a discount to mine’s bond.
More to come.
Originally published as McArthur River Mine expansion blocked by Paech
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