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- Release Date: 31/03/14 18:45
- Summary: GENERAL: CRP: CRP files draft Marine Consent application
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CRP
31/03/2014 16:45
GENERAL
REL: 1645 HRS Chatham Rock Phosphate Limited
GENERAL: CRP: CRP files draft Marine Consent application
Media Release
31 March 2014
Chatham Rock Phosphate files draft Marine Consent application
Chatham Rock Phosphate today submitted a draft Marine Consent application to
the Environmental Protection Authority - the culmination of four years work
and more than $25 million in investment.
The Marine Consent is the only major licence CRP now needs, having gained a
mining permit for its phosphate extraction project in December. The EPA, New
Zealand's environmental regulator, is expected to decide on CRP's application
in November after a full public process.
Including the proceeds of the rights issue presently underway, Chatham has
raised over $27 million from its existing shareholders and through placements
to qualified investors to finance extensive spending on science-based
research.
Managing Director Chris Castle said the CRP team was very proud of the work
contained in the application.
"Rigourous research by scientists has considered the relevant facets of what
we propose and demonstrates how we can minimise and mitigate environmental
impacts.
"We sincerely appreciate the input from all of our stakeholders that has
contributed to our thinking. We believe our work will satisfy any issues
raised.
"Having done our homework, we know this project stacks up technically,
environmentally and financially."
Mr Castle said the 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, making it a project of national significance.
The Environmental Impact Assessment forming the centrepiece of the Marine
Consent application will be considered under the Exclusive Economic Zone
environmental consenting regime that came into force in June last year as
part of the EEZ and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) legislation.
Supplementing the 459-page main document are more than 30 appendices, mostly
scientific reports and models. The information in the EIA will be publicly
available on the EPA website, and via a link on rockphosphate.co.nz, once the
EPA has accepted the application as complete. People are then able to read
the information, make submissions and attend public hearings during the next
six months.
Contact Chris Castle on +64 21 55 81 85 or [email protected]
End CA:00248935 For:CRP Type:GENERAL Time:2014-03-31 16:45:12
