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- Release Date: 15/05/14 10:30
- Summary: GENERAL: CRP: Chatham Rock Phosphate files Marine Consent Application
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CRP
15/05/2014 08:30
GENERAL
REL: 0830 HRS Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited
GENERAL: CRP: Chatham Rock Phosphate files Marine Consent Application
Media Release
15 May 2014
CRP files Marine Consent application - starts six month decision process
Chatham Rock Phosphate today submitted its formal marine consent application
to the Environmental Protection Authority. Should it be accepted as
complete, the six-month formal process is expected to lead to a decision in
November.
The application, representing four years' work and $25 million in investment,
is the second seabed mining proposal under the Exclusive Economic Zone and
Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012, and will be considered
through a full public process by an expert panel appointed by the
Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
The marine consent is the only major licence CRP now needs, having gained a
mining permit for its phosphate extraction project in December 2013. CRP
submitted a draft application to the EPA on 31 March 2014 and since then has
been working with the EPA to address the EPA's preliminary comments on its
application.
Managing Director Chris Castle said he was confident the application would
meet the tough standard demanded by the law.
"Our focus has always been two-fold: base the analysis on science and consult
with all interested parties to ensure their concerns are addressed through
the process. Input from both stakeholders and scientists is critical to make
sure all the bases are covered.
"The results of this analysis and consultation are that we understand what
the environmental impacts are likely to be and we can clearly demonstrate how
we can minimise and mitigate them. We know this project can deliver to its
shareholders financially, and to other stakeholders in terms of environmental
requirements."
CRP's phosphate resource, located on the seabed of the Chatham Rise, offers
fertiliser security for New Zealand's primary industry, has big export and
import substitution potential, as well as environmental benefits as a direct
application fertiliser, making it a project of national significance.
The main 400-plus page document comprising the Environmental Impact
Assessment is supplemented by 35 appendices, mostly scientific reports. The
information will be publicly available on the EPA website and via a link on
www.rockphosphate.co.nz should the EPA accept the application as complete.
All interested parties will then able to read the information, make
submissions and attend public hearings during the next six months.
Please note Chris Castle is currently in the UK so for further information
please contact Linda Sanders, Corporate Affairs Director, [email protected] or
027 471 5593
End CA:00250461 For:CRP Type:GENERAL Time:2014-05-15 08:30:08
