spot price falls to new post-fukishima low, page-16

West Australia government denies possibility of public inquiry into Yeelirrie uranium mine project; extends consultation period: Environment Minister Donna Faragher has today ruled out holding a public inquiry into BHP Billiton's proposal for a $17 billion uranium mine in WA. WA Labor, conservation groups, Greens, indigenous communities and the Unions WA have been calling for a 30-year-old act governing uranium mining in the state to be overhauled. They say a tougher assessment process for proposed uranium mines needs to be established. But Mrs Faragher said the level of assessment had been set at the highest level under the Environmental Protection Act 1986 and a public inquiry was not possible.
"I have, however, considered the issues raised in the appeals and believe there is merit in extending the public consultation period." Ms Faragher has now extended consultation period for the public from the usual 10 weeks to 14. (Perth Now Oct. 9, 2009)